Brown Pelican
Pelecanus occidentalis
Least Concern
An iconic coastal bird that plunge-dives from heights of 60+ feet to catch fish. The only pelican species that feeds by diving. Once endangered due to DDT, now recovered and abundant along all Florida coastlines.
Size large
Habitat coastal, saltwater
Diet Menhaden, mullet, anchovies, herring
Colors brown, gray, white
Behavior
Plunge-dives head-first from height, folding wings back at impact. Strains water from pouch before swallowing. Roosts in large groups on docks, pilings, and mangrove islands.
⚠️ Safety
Do not feed pelicans — fishing hooks in discarded bait are a leading cause of injury. Cut and properly dispose of all fishing line.
Fun Facts
- Can hold up to 3 gallons of water in its throat pouch
- Removed from the Endangered Species List in 2009
- Hits the water at 40+ mph when diving
- Air sacs under the skin cushion the impact of plunge-diving
Where to See
Identify This Species
Use our Species Identifier to learn how to distinguish the Brown Pelican from similar species.
