Pelecanus occidentalis ORDER: PELECANIFORMES FAMILY: PELECANIDAE
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern
© Chuq Von Rospach
Unique among the world's seven species of pelicans, the Brown Pelican is found along the ocean shores and on only a few inland lakes in the southwestern U.S. It is the only dark pelican, and also the only one that plunges from the air into the water to catch its food.
Generally silent away from nesting colony. Nestling squawks for food; adults have low, hoarse display calls.