How to identify the Australian Pelican

To correctly identify the Australian Pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

160-190 cm (63-75 in)

Wingspan

2.5-3.4 m (8.2-11.2 ft)

Weight

4-13 kg (8.8-28.7 lb)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults are predominantly white with black primary and secondary flight feathers, and a black stripe along the trailing edge of the underwing. A greyish wash may be present on the crown and nape. The rump and tail are white.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Extremely long, robust, and flattened bill, typically pale pink to yellowish, with a blue, grey, or black stripe along the upper mandible. The gular pouch is large and pinkish-yellow, becoming brighter during breeding.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown eyes, often surrounded by a pale yellow orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Greyish-blue to pinkish-grey legs and feet, which are fully webbed.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Its immense size, predominantly white body with black flight feathers, and the exceptionally long, pink bill with a large gular pouch are diagnostic. The black trailing edge of the underwing is a key field mark in flight.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have duller plumage, with greyish-brown feathers replacing the black on the wings and often a greyish wash on the back and head. The bill is also duller, often greyish-pink, and the gular pouch is less vibrant.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   During the breeding season, the bill and gular pouch become much more brightly colored, often with patches of orange, red, or deep pink. Males develop a temporary 'breeding knob' on the bill.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males are generally larger than females, with a longer and deeper bill. During breeding, males develop a prominent 'breeding knob' on the culmen of the bill, which is shed after breeding.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a very large, bulky white bird with an exceptionally long bill and a prominent gular pouch. In flight, its broad wings and short tail are distinctive.
• Plumage Coloration. Observe the stark contrast between the pure white body and the black primary and secondary flight feathers. Crucially, note the black trailing edge on the underwing, which is a key identifier in flight.
• Bill and Pouch. The long, pale pink to yellowish bill with its massive, expandable gular pouch is unmistakable. Look for the blue/grey/black stripe on the upper mandible. Breeding birds will have brighter bill colors and a 'breeding knob'.
• Flight Pattern. Watch for its characteristic soaring flight on thermals, often at great heights. When flying directly, it uses slow, powerful wingbeats, with its head tucked back and feet trailing.
• Behavior. Observe its feeding behavior, often in groups, scooping fish with its pouch. Its presence on large, open bodies of water is also a strong indicator.

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