American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos)

This is an adult in non-breeding plumage showing short crest feathers on its nape. Its bill will turn red in breeding plumage. They do not breed here, but are migrants and winter visitors breeding on remote islands on inland lakes to the north. This species is one of the largest and heaviest North American birds. Although weights of up to 30 lbs. have been claimed they usually max out at a bit under 20 lbs. Contrary to popular opinion, pelicans never carry food in their pouches. Instead they scoop up food but swallow their catch before flying off. Unlike the more familiar Brown Pelican, they do not plunge dive, but forage cooperatively corralling fish into the shallows.