Pelecanus crispus
The majestic Dalmatian Pelican, Pelecanus crispus, stands as the largest of the pelican species and one of the heaviest flying birds in the world, with adults typically measuring 160-180 cm (63-71 in) in length, boasting an immense wingspan of 290-345 cm (9.5-11.3 ft), and weighing 9-15 kg (20-33 lb). Its plumage is predominantly silvery-white to pale grey, often appearing dirty white, with distinctively shaggy and somewhat curly feathers on its head and nape, which gives the species its Lati...
Found primarily in large, shallow freshwater and brackish wetlands, including lakes, deltas, lagoons, estuaries, and slow-moving rivers, often characterized by extensive reedbeds and isolated islands for nesting. They favor low-lying areas, rarely occurring at high elevations.
Primarily piscivorous, feeding on a wide variety of fish species such as carp, mullet, eels, perch, and rudd, often obtained through cooperative herding and scooping from the water's surface.
Dalmatian Pelicans are highly social, diurnal birds, frequently observed in large flocks, especially during foraging and nesting. They roost communally on sandbars, small islands, or dense reedbeds, often exhibiting a quiet demeanor outside the breeding colony. Their foraging strategy is predomin...
The breeding range of the Dalmatian Pelican spans across southeastern Europe, Central Asia, and into parts of China. Major breeding strongholds include the Danube Delta in Romania, Lake Prespa and Lake Kerkini in Greece, other wetlands in Albania, Bulgaria, Turkey, and eastward through Kazakhstan...
Near Threatened
- The Dalmatian Pelican is the largest pelican species in the world and one of the heaviest flying birds, with some individuals weighing over 15 kg (33 lb). - Its scientific name, 'Pelecanus crispus,' directly translates to 'curly pelican,' referring to the distinctive shaggy and curly feathers o...