Brown Pelican

122 cm (48") Wings 213 (84") Locally common on both coasts, rare inland. State bird for Louisiana. Large bird with grayish brown body and large bill. Hindneck is variable in color; chestnut when breeding otherwise white. White or yellow on head. Makes spectacular dives into sea from air to catch fish.

In flight, flaps then glides. May fly in flocks in long lines.

This bold bird may beg for food on fishing piers.

Play