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Pink backed Pelican

Pelecanus rufescens

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30.3322, -81.6556

Field Notes

Description:

The Pink-backed Pelican (Pelecanus rufescens) is a member of the pelican family of birds. It is a resident breeder in Africa, southern Arabia and apparently extinct in Madagascar in swamps and shallow lakes.

This is a small pelican, but the wingspan is still around 2.4 m (7.9 ft), with an average weight of 5.5 kg (12 lbs). It is much smaller and duller than the Great White Pelican. The plumage is grey and white, with a pink back. The top of the bill is yellow and the pouch is usually greyish. Breeding adults have long feather plumes on the head.

Habitat:

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Species ID Suggestions

Pink-backed Pelican

Pelecanus rufescens

Comments (3)

I've realized that you may have other photos that you'd like to label. The Jacksonville zoo has a very nice web site to help with any other photos (even those you didn't upload!). http://www.jacksonvillezoo.org/animals/ As this photo was taken in a zoo setting, please list it as the habitat (by name). If you have any questions, please let me know.
Photographed
PublishedJune 26, 2011

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