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Australian Pelican

Pelecanus conspicillatus

Australian Pelican

Australian Pelicans inhabit lakes, rivers, reservoirs, estuaries, and coastal lagoons across Australia and nearby regions, often moving widely after rainfall creates new feeding sites. They feed mainly on fish, using the huge bill and expandable throat pouch to scoop prey from the water, but they may also take crustaceans, insects, and small birds when available. Despite their bulky appearance, they are strong soaring fliers that travel long distances on rising air currents. Their bill is among the longest of any living bird, making it a defining tool for both feeding and close-range defense.

Type
Water / Wing
Conservation status
LC

Growth chain

  1. ?
  2. ?
  3. Australian Pelican

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Range map records: GBIF.org (CC0 and CC BY). Country outlines: Natural Earth.