The American White Pelican is one of the largest birds in North America with a wingspan up to 9.5 feet, and one of the heaviest flying birds. Unlike the Brown Pelican, it does not dive for fish but cooperates with other pelicans to herd fish into shallow water and scoop them up. During breeding season it develops a flat, plate-like projection on its bill that is shed after egg-laying.
Best time to see a American White Pelican
The best time to see a American White Pelican is January–July, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 63,627 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a American White Pelican? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent American White Pelican sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a American White Pelican? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a American White Pelican is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love birds? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.