Brown Pelican Art Print

Pelicans are among the most recognizable of all waterbirds, with eight species found across lakes, rivers, and coastal regions worldwide. Instantly identified by their long bills and enormous expandable throat pouches, these ancient birds have existed for over 30 million years. Their pouches can hold up to three gallons of water—far more than their stomachs—allowing them to scoop up fish with remarkable efficiency.

Highly social and often seen in groups, pelicans use a variety of hunting strategies: Brown Pelicans plunge dramatically from heights of up to 60 feet, while other species work cooperatively, herding fish into shallow water. Found on every continent except Antarctica, pelicans play an important role in aquatic ecosystems as skilled, specialized fish hunters.

Image by Rick Wunderle

Pelicans are among the most recognizable of all waterbirds, with eight species found across lakes, rivers, and coastal regions worldwide. Instantly identified by their long bills and enormous expandable throat pouches, these ancient birds have existed for over 30 million years. Their pouches can hold up to three gallons of water—far more than their stomachs—allowing them to scoop up fish with remarkable efficiency.

Highly social and often seen in groups, pelicans use a variety of hunting strategies: Brown Pelicans plunge dramatically from heights of up to 60 feet, while other species work cooperatively, herding fish into shallow water. Found on every continent except Antarctica, pelicans play an important role in aquatic ecosystems as skilled, specialized fish hunters.

Image by Rick Wunderle

Pelicans are among the most recognizable of all waterbirds, with eight species found across lakes, rivers, and coastal regions worldwide. Instantly identified by their long bills and enormous expandable throat pouches, these ancient birds have existed for over 30 million years. Their pouches can hold up to three gallons of water—far more than their stomachs—allowing them to scoop up fish with remarkable efficiency.

Highly social and often seen in groups, pelicans use a variety of hunting strategies: Brown Pelicans plunge dramatically from heights of up to 60 feet, while other species work cooperatively, herding fish into shallow water. Found on every continent except Antarctica, pelicans play an important role in aquatic ecosystems as skilled, specialized fish hunters.

Image by Rick Wunderle