Australian Pelican
Common Name: Australian Pelican
Scientific Name: Pelecanus conspicillatus.
The Australian Pelican is notable for its black and white plumage and large pink bill. This bird has the longest bill of any living bird, earning its scientific name, which means “spectacled” due to its eye markings.
Australian pelicans are found in the inland and coastal waters of Australia and New Guinea. They adapt well to various environments and follow food supplies across regions.
Description
The Australian pelican stands out with its white body, black wings, and large pink bill. This bill is the longest of any bird, reaching up to 50 cm.
It has a wingspan of 2.3 to 2.6 metres and weighs between 4 and 13 kg. Although males and females differ slightly in size, the bill is a consistent standout feature.
During courtship, the pelican's bill and orbital skin change colour, shifting through hues of orange, blue, pink, and scarlet. This vivid display makes their appearance even more memorable. Their size and these colourful features make them fascinating birds to observe.
Habitat
Australian pelicans are found across Australia, New Guinea, Fiji, parts of Indonesia, and even New Zealand. They thrive in large bodies of open water such as lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and estuaries. Swamps and coastal lagoons also provide ideal conditions for them.
These adaptable birds can live in various environments. From arid deserts to bustling urban parks, as long as there is open water and ample food, they are content. They even thrive in industrial areas and ornamental city parks.
Pelicans are particularly prevalent in areas with minimal human disturbance, especially during breeding seasons. Although they prefer peaceful environments, they are resilient and can adjust to changes in their surroundings. While exploring pelican habitats, watch for them in these diverse settings.
Diet
Australian pelicans primarily feed on fish, such as goldfish, European carp, and native perch. They are also opportunistic feeders and will eat crustaceans, tadpoles, and turtles. During food shortages, they may catch and eat seagulls and ducklings, often drowning them first.
Their feeding method is quite unique. The pelican’s bill, equipped with a hook at the end, is sensitive and helps them locate and grip slippery prey in murky waters.
The bill can hold up to 13 litres and acts as a temporary pouch. Pelicans plunge their bills into the water, using the pouch as a net. After catching their prey, they drain the water and manipulate it in their bill to orient it correctly for swallowing.
Pelicans often feed in large, cooperative groups, sometimes exceeding 1,900 birds. These flocks work together to herd fish into shallow areas by beating their wings and using their bills.
Behaviour
Australian pelicans usually start breeding around 2 to 3 years of age. Timing varies with location and rainfall, with breeding often tied to the availability of water. In reliable environments, they may breed year-round.
Nesting is a straightforward process. Pelicans create shallow depressions in the sand or earth, sometimes adding grass for lining. Occasionally, they build more complex nests on bushes or trees.
Breeding is a communal affair. Pelicans form large colonies where multiple pairs nest close together. This social setup helps protect against predators and allows for shared parenting. They also create feeding pods to ensure their chicks receive enough food.
Vocalisations are key to their behaviour. During the breeding season, pelicans produce distinct calls that signal various activities and help maintain flock cohesion. These sounds contribute to the bustling, lively atmosphere of their colonies.
Conservation Status
The Australian pelican enjoys a stable conservation outlook. It is classified as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, with a population ranging from 100,000 to 1,000,000 individuals. This large, fluctuating population contributes to its secure status, with its extensive range helping to offset major threats.
Pelicans are minimally affected by pollution and benefit from legal protections. Nonetheless, they are sensitive to disturbances, particularly during nesting periods. Although they adapt well to artificial water bodies, their breeding sites need a quiet environment to be successful.
Fun Fact
- The Australian pelican’s enormous pouch can hold between 9 to 13 litres of water, which aids in feeding and can even serve as a cooling device when swung.
- These pelicans have a lightweight skeleton—just 10% of their total body weight—allowing them to soar up to 3 kilometres high. They glide slowly, using thermals to save energy and fly in ‘V’ formations when in flocks.
- In South Australia, they’re known as "nori," a term from the Ngaarrindjeri people, and appear as a totem in singer Ruby Hunter’s life.
- Adult pelicans use minimal vocalisations like hissing and groaning, while young pelicans are notably vocal, begging loudly for food. They primarily use visual cues—wing flaps, neck movements, and bill displays—for communication, especially during courtship.
Similar Species
The Dalmatian Pelican and the Australian Pelican have many similarities but also some notable differences. The Dalmatian Pelican is larger and bulkier compared to the Australian Pelican. Although they are similar in length, their bill sizes and plumage set them apart. The Australian Pelican has mostly white feathers with black wings, while the Dalmatian Pelican sports more subdued plumage.
Another closely related species is the Great White Pelican. It is commonly found across Europe, Africa, and Asia. In contrast, the Australian Pelican is mainly found in Australia and its neighbouring regions.
Lifespan
Pelicans generally live between 15 and 25 years in the wild. However, they often have a longer lifespan in captivity, with some reaching up to 50 years. This contrast shows how controlled environments can greatly influence their longevity.
