Romania #1199 (1957) – White Pelican

Description

Romania #1199 (1957) – White Pelican

White pelicans, also known as American white pelicans (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos), are large water birds that are primarily found in North America. They are known for their distinctive appearance, including their large size, long wingspan, and striking white plumage. Here are some key characteristics and information about white pelicans:

1. Physical Characteristics:
   • Size: White pelicans are among the largest of all North American birds. They have a length of about 50-70 inches (127-178 cm) and a wingspan of approximately 8-9 feet (2.4-2.7 meters).
   • Coloration: Their plumage is mostly white, with black wingtips visible in flight. During the breeding season, adult white pelicans develop a small, pronounced bump on the top of their large bills.
2. Habitat:
   • White pelicans are primarily found in freshwater habitats, such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
   • They are non-migratory in the southern parts of their range but are known to migrate from their northern breeding grounds to warmer areas during the winter.
3. Behavior:
   • White pelicans are known for their unique feeding behavior. They often forage for food cooperatively by swimming in a line, herding fish, and then dipping their heads to scoop up prey.
   • Unlike their close relatives, the brown pelicans, white pelicans do not dive for fish but rather fish from the water’s surface.
4. Breeding:
   • Breeding colonies of white pelicans can be found in isolated islands and wetland areas. They build large nests on the ground, often using sticks and other vegetation.
   • Female white pelicans usually lay 2-3 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them.
   • Chicks are born with a covering of down feathers, and they are cared for by both parents.
5. Conservation Status:
   • White pelicans are generally considered to have stable populations. They are protected by various laws and regulations in North America.
   • Like many bird species, they face threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and disturbance at breeding sites.
6. Migratory Patterns:
   • In the United States, white pelicans are known to breed in the northwestern states and migrate to the southern and coastal areas during the winter.
   • They often form impressive V-shaped flight formations during migration.

White pelicans are known for their elegance and impressive size, making them a fascinating sight for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. Their unique feeding behaviors and striking appearance make them a noteworthy species in North American birdwatching.