American white pelicans are true to their name, spending summers inland around prairie regions across North America. Once the weather turns chilly, they migrate south to locales around the Gulf of Mexico and southern California. Due to their snow-white plumage and large size, they are not easily confused with the only other North American pelican—the brown pelican. Unlike the brown pelican, they do not dive out of the sky to catch prey, instead, relying on their strong swimming skills!

When white pelicans come across fish or other prey in shallow water or near the surface, they dip their bills while continuing to swim and attempt to scoop up their meal. Being social birds, they sometimes work together to concentrate prey, making each scoop more effective! And if that doesn’t work, they’ll simply steal from a more successful neighbor. American white pelicans are unusually silent for seabirds, with only the younger birds making a racket to call for food.

When you make a symbolic adoption, your donation supports Oceana’s campaigns to restore the health and abundance of our oceans. 

Adoption package includes:

• Pelican plush stuffed animal (5")
  
• Personalized adoption certificate 

Would you like your purchase gift wrapped? You'll be able to choose this option on the Cart page.

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