American White Pelican

American White Pelican, Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

One of the largest birds in North America, the American White Pelican can be seen throughout a vast portion of the continent. With the exception of a few residential populations in the south, these birds migrate starting at two years of age. The American White Pelican nests up north in colonies on isolated islands miles from foraging areas. During both breeding season and wintering, this species favors shallow lakes, rivers, and marshes. Unlike the Brown Pelican, the white does not dive, but rather dips its head underwater to scoop up fish. A notable aspect of the American White Pelican is the cooperative foraging in flocks. By swimming in a circle and driving their prey, pelicans can concentrate the fish in the shallows together for easier foraging.