We only have one type of pelican in Australia, although there are several others worldwide.
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They’re found throughout the country wherever there is water, and are a common site in coastal locations. Pelicans are a very large black and white bird with a wingspan of 2.5 metres and a long pink bill (the largest of any bird), short, thick legs and a short tail with male birds weighing up to 10 kilograms.
They are unique in that they have a large fleshy pouch below the bill which, when fully extended, can hold up to 13 litres of water.
This amazing pouch is used as a fishing net, and when a fish is caught the bird draws the pouch towards its breast, emptying the water and manipulating the prey into a swallowing position.
They will also eat crabs, turtles and frogs. Needless to say, this method of feeding leaves the birds susceptible to swallowing plastic bags and other rubbish in the water.
Pelicans have also been observed opening their bill to collect rainwater.
These birds swim buoyantly and sometimes hunt cooperatively in groups, herding fish into shallow water by flapping their wings or swimming in circles around the fish, herding them into a concentrated mass. It is then very easy for the birds to scoop up their meal.
This fishing technique is a beautiful sight and looks like a birdy version of synchronised swimming.
Pelicans are not capable of sustained flapping flight, and soar rather than fly. They flap initially and rise progressively in spirals until they reach a height up to 3000 metres where they can use the thermals to soar.
The birds can then travel considerable distances by moving from one thermal to another, reaching speeds of 56 kilometres an hour, sometimes for 24 hours non-stop.
Breeding occurs in colonies on islands and secluded shores and after a good rainy season, on inland lakes. The courtship ritual is led by the female pelican who leads potential mates around the colony.
The males display themselves by swinging their bills from side to side and tossing small objects such as sticks and dried fish in the air and catching them.
Pelicans are ancient birds and have been around at least 40 million years based on fossilised remains.