California Brown Pelican

Description:

Though these birds look big, the Brown Pelican is the smallest of 8 species. Wingspan up to 8ft and weighing up to 12 lbs. Long bill with a gular pouch like other pelican species. Unlike the White Pelican that skims the surface of the water for food, the Brown Pelican dive bombs for it's prey. Adult birds have white heads, neck will become a reddish brown during breeding season. Bills are grey, with brown chest and wings looking almost like a silver color in both male and female. Juveniles are mostly a dirty brown with light brown to white chest.

Habitat:

Mostly found along the coast but can be found in lakes, waterways, marshes and on rocky shores and islands.

Notes:

These were spotted in Oakland's Lake Merritt along with some gulls and cormorants.