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American White Pelican Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A huge waterbird with very broad wings, a long neck, and a massive bill that gives the head a unique, long shape. They have thick bodies, short legs, and short, square tails. During the breeding season, adults grow an unusual projection or horn on the upper mandible near the tip of the bill.

    Relative Size

    One of our largest flying birds: considerably larger than a Bald Eagle; smaller than a California Condor.

    Relative Sizegoose or largergoose-sized or larger

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 50.0-65.0 in (127-165 cm)
      • Weight: 158.7-317.5 oz (4500-9000 g)
      • Wingspan: 96.1-114.2 in (244-290 cm)

    Shape of the American White Pelican© Alix d'Entremont / Macaulay Library