* Threatened or Endangered
American White Pelican *
: Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
: Bird
: Freshwater bogs, swamps, rivers, and lakes.
: Fish
: Up to 10 ft wingspan
: Least Concern
• The plumage of the White American pelican is almost entirely bright white, except for some black secondary feathers.
• These annual migrators will fly in "V" formation. They fly in large flocks often consisting of more than 180 individuals..
• To attract a mate, the birds show off their bright orange bills, strut around, bow, and take short flights
• These pelicans can hold up to 3 gallons of water in their bill.
Respect native wildlife by remembering that…it’s wild! When enjoying native land where wildlife lives, always be aware, be safe, and leave no trace. Never approach, taunt, or feed wildlife. Interacting with them can be dangerous to you and to them. Instead, enjoy their beauty and their ecosystem without disturbing them. To learn more, follow these links:
gf.nd.gov/wildlife/orphaned
www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/tips-safely-visiting-national-parks
Do not take in injured wildlife. Call ND Game and Fish, local USFWS, or the Dakota Zoo if you come across an injured raptor or migratory bird. Consider a donation to the Dakota Zoo Conservation Fund which supports our Raptor Rehabilitation Program. https://www.dakotazoo.org/education/raptor-rehabilitation/ or https://gf.nd.gov/rap