Brown Pelican

(Pelecanus occidentalis)

 

Two immature and a non-breeding adult Brown Pelicans at Crissy marsh.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Natural History: The Brown Pelican's diet consists of fish which it often hunts by taking plunging dives from above the water. It prefers open marine coast lines. Nests are built in colonies on offshore rocks and islands that lack mammalian predators.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found over water in coastal areas.

Frequency: The Brown Pelican is common to abundant throughout the year.

Identifying Characteristics: This large, grayish-brown bird is characterized by its large grayish bill with throat pouch. It often flies in small groups low over the water.

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