I love them!
I have always been in constant wonder & awe of these beautiful, very large birds.. I could sit & watch them all day as they interact with their group (known as a pod, scoop or squadron), grooming & feeding, standing together before launching into flight one by one, in a somehow communicated understanding of which one is to be the first (perhaps a navigator, or head of the pecking order) in a well coordinated takeoff. I refer to them as "B-52 Bombers" being so large (1.6 to 1.8mtr in size & weighing up to 7kg!) & the swishing sound of their massive wings (up to 3.4mtr span) as they either lift up & away, or land with an almighty skidding/gliding motion & a huge splash!
I do feel a pang of disappointment when I visit our local river & sanctuary if the pelicans are absent! There is always many other varied birdlife, but is just not the same to me... silly I know!
These photos were taken in winter's morning light as 2 pelicans searched for food on the Barwon River before heading off to work. He saw me at the waters edge, & swam over looking me directly in the eye... no doubt checking out if I had any tasty morsels on offer!
This next photo depicts him (assuming is male here!) as he takes a scoop of water with his large bill which can hold up to 13 litres of water...
This next photo is one I took at Balyang Sanctuary some time ago, but is my favourite showing the magnificent colours of the bill & pouch. I believe it could've been during their courtship period, as the bill and pouch changes colour dramatically.
and of course, the grooming whilst perched on a branch!!
Up close & personal with Pelicans on the Barwon river this morning.... in the winter chill. Was absolute delight to stroll so close, they did keep a watchful eye on me....
Hope you enjoy these, some of nature's perfect wonders at our fingertips to enjoy!!
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