Pelican: The Graceful Fisher of the Waters

Have you ever seen a pelican swoop down gracefully over the ocean and snatch a fish right out of the water? It’s a sight that makes you stop for a second. With its giant wings and funny-looking beak, this bird captures attention not just for its looks but also for its skill. The pelican may look a bit odd at first glance, but once you get to know it, there’s so much more to admire. 

 

This article will walk you through the life, features, habits, and importance of the pelican bird. We’ll also introduce you to a couple of charming pelicans who currently call Bali Bird Park their home.

 

Introduction to the Pelican

 

The pelican is a large waterbird known worldwide. Its long beak and stretchy throat pouch make it stand out from any other bird you might see at the beach or river. You don’t have to be a bird lover to recognize one. Pelicans belong to the scientific family Pelecanidae.

 

What makes them even more fascinating is that they’ve been around for millions of years. Fossils show they’ve existed since at least 30 million years ago. That’s a lot of time spent perfecting their fishing skills!

 

Pelicans are often seen as symbols of teamwork and survival. You’ll usually find them working together in groups, especially when hunting. Their graceful flying and cooperative behavior have earned them respect in both science and culture.

 

Physical Characteristics and Unique Features

 

Pelican’s size is big. Some species have a wingspan that can reach up to 3 meters. That’s nearly as wide as a small car!

 

One of the most noticeable features is the long, flat bill with a gular pouch, which acts like a fishing net. This stretchable pouch hangs from the lower part of their beak and is used to scoop up fish and water. Once the water drains out, the pelican simply swallows the fish. It looks effortless, but it’s actually a highly developed skill.

 

Here are some more physical traits that set them apart:

 

• Plumage: Mostly white or gray, often with black tips or markings on the wings
• Feet: Fully webbed, perfect for swimming
• Neck: Long and flexible, which helps them catch fish from various angles
• Body size: Depending on the pelican species, they can weigh 4 to 13 kilograms

Despite their size, pelicans are strong fliers. They glide smoothly across the sky and are even capable of long-distance migration. That’s impressive for such a bulky bird.

 

Behavior and Social Life

 

If you see a pelican, chances are you’ll see more than one. They’re social creatures and love to hang out in groups, especially when hunting or roosting. Flocks of pelicans are not just about numbers, they are about strategy.

 

Pelicans often hunt cooperatively. They’ll form a semi-circle or line and herd fish toward the shallow waters. Once the fish are trapped, they scoop them up using their pouches. It’s teamwork at its best.

 

During breeding season, their social skills become even more fascinating. Here’s what they do:

 

• Perform synchronized dances
• Puff up and show off their pouches
• Make clicking and honking sounds to impress mates

They nest in large colonies, sometimes on remote islands or sandbars. Their chicks are born featherless and depend entirely on their parents at first.

 

So yes, pelicans aren’t just great hunters. They’re also good parents, friends, and dance partners.

 

Habitat and Diet

 

Pelicans love water. Whether it’s a calm lake, a flowing river, a coastal beach, or a wide estuary, you’ll likely find pelicans hanging around. They avoid forests and mountains because those places don’t offer what they need, fish.

 

Speaking of fish, that’s the main item on the pelican diet. They aren’t too picky, though. Here’s what they usually eat:

 

• Fish (main course!)
• Amphibians like frogs
• Small crustaceans like crabs and shrimp

How do they eat?

 

• Scoop: They dive their beak into the water, scoop up fish and water, then let the water drain.
• Dive: Some species dive from low heights to catch prey, especially in deeper waters.
• Swim and catch: Others prefer to swim calmly and catch fish just under the surface.

Their throat pouch can hold up to 11 liters of water. That’s more than a big kitchen jug!

 

Species of Pelican Found Worldwide

 

There are eight pelican species found in different corners of the world. Each has its own unique traits and preferred habitats. Let’s take a quick look at each:

 

1. Great White Pelican

• Found in Africa and parts of Europe
• Very large, white body with a pinkish hue
• Strong flier, travels long distances

2. Australian Pelican

• Known for having the largest bill among all birds
• Found throughout Australia and nearby islands

3. Brown Pelican

• The only pelican species that dives headfirst into water
• Common along the coasts of the Americas
• Smaller and darker than other species

4. Dalmatian Pelican

• The largest pelican species
• Found in Europe and Asia
• Silvery-white feathers and curly nape feathers

5. Pink-backed Pelican

• Medium-sized, pink hue on back
• Found in Africa and southern Arabia

6. Spot-billed Pelican

• Grayish-white body, spotted bill
• Native to India and Southeast Asia

7. American White Pelican

• Huge wingspan, elegant flier
• Often seen gliding in formation
• Found in North America

Each pelican bird species is adapted to its environment. From diving techniques to bill size, everything is made for survival.

 

Conservation and Environmental Role

 

Pelicans are more than just beautiful birds. They are also important indicators of environmental health. When pelicans thrive, it often means the water quality is good and fish populations are stable.

 

But not all is perfect. Some pelican species are considered vulnerable or threatened. 

 

Here’s why:

 

• Pollution: Chemicals in the water can poison their food
• Plastic waste: Birds mistake it for food or get tangled in it
• Habitat loss: Coastal development and deforestation reduce their nesting areas

However, there are efforts to help them:

 

• Protecting wetlands and coastal regions
• Banning harmful pesticides like DDT
• Raising public awareness about their role in nature

Interestingly, pelicans also hold cultural value. In many myths and legends, they are symbols of sacrifice and generosity. Some religions even use them as a metaphor for spiritual feeding and parental love.

 

See the Magnificent Pelican at Bali Bird Park

 

If you’ve read this far and are curious to see a pelican up close, there’s a perfect place: Bali Bird Park.

 

Located in Gianyar, Bali, this park is home to two friendly pelicans who have quite a reputation. These birds are not shy at all. They like to roam freely around their home, and sometimes, they even visit the restaurant inside the park. Imagine enjoying your lunch while a pelican struts by your table!

 

Why visit Bali Bird Park?

 

• See pelicans up close
• Learn about bird species from around the world
• Enjoy family-friendly exhibits and beautiful gardens

The pelican is more than just a bird with a big beak. It’s a graceful hunter, a social team player, and a natural symbol of survival. You can book your ticket online here at Bali Bird Park.