Pelicans · Pelicans and herons
Dalmatian Pelican
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Pelecanus crispus
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How to recognize it
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Body length 160–180 cm
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Adults with silvery-white plumage, a curly nape crest and dark grey legs
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In flight, broad pale grey wings with black tips; neck bent, head resting on the back
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Yellow throat pouch, reddish-orange during the breeding season
About the species
Silvery white at rest, the Dalmatian pelican looks pale grey across its broad wings in flight. Curled feathers rise from the back of its head, above a huge bill with a pouch that turns orange-red in the breeding season; its legs are dark grey. The shaggy crest helps distinguish it from the smooth-headed Great White Pelican, which shares parts of its range.
On the water, it swims upright and dips its head and neck to seize fish just below the surface rather than diving deep. Several may sometimes work together, edging fish toward shallows. Usually quiet, it gives deep, rough grunts, hisses or barks around the breeding season.
Look for it on large lakes, river deltas and other open wetlands, often among reeds or other water plants. Fish are its main food, caught near the surface or in shallow water. Some populations remain close to breeding areas through winter; others move to ice-free wetlands for the season.
Where to find
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Over large lakes and river deltas beyond the city, watch for a synchronized group of Dalmatian Pelicans gliding overhead.
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Along shallow lake shores beyond the city at dawn or toward evening, watch for slow swimming and quick head-dips to seize fish.
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During the breeding season, near secluded reedbeds on islands, listen for deep grunts from a nesting colony.
