There are two species of pelicans that are occasionally found in Indiana – the American White Pelican and the Brown Pelican.
American White Pelican
The American White Pelican is the most common pelican species seen in Indiana. Some key facts about American White Pelicans in Indiana:
- They are very large birds, with a wingspan of up to 9 feet.
- Their diet consists primarily of fish, which they scoop out of the water with their large bills.
- They breed in western North America and migrate through Indiana in spring and fall as they travel between breeding and wintering grounds.
- Major migration peaks are in March-May and September-November.
- They are most often seen along major rivers, lakes, and wetlands in Indiana during migration.
- Well-known hotspots include Lake Michigan, the Ohio River, and large reservoirs.
- Rarely, a few individuals may stay in Indiana throughout the summer, most likely immature non-breeding birds.
- They do not nest in Indiana.
The American White Pelican is listed as an endangered species in Indiana, although populations appear stable overall. Disturbance of nesting colonies in the western U.S. remains a concern.
Brown Pelican
The Brown Pelican is an occasional visitor to Indiana, mainly during summer and fall. Key facts:
- This is a coastal species that breeds along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts.
- Most of the reports in Indiana are likely wandering immature birds.
- They are seen most regularly in the southern part of the state, especially along the Ohio River.
- There are a handful of records annually, mainly during July-October.
- Large rivers, lakes, and reservoirs are the most likely places to spot one.
- Their diet also consists mainly of fish.
The Brown Pelican is federally listed as endangered, though populations have rebounded following the banning of DDT. The species has expanded its range northward in recent decades. Most sightings in Indiana are likely wandering immatures or potentially displaced birds from coastal areas impacted by hurricanes.
Spotting Pelicans in Indiana
Here are some tips for spotting pelicans in Indiana:
- Scan large open bodies of water like Lake Michigan, Ohio River, and large reservoirs.
- A good spotting scope or binoculars are essential to view distant birds on the water.
- Look for the large white or brown bodies contrasting against the water.
- Pay close attention to head shape and bill size and shape to distinguish from other waterbirds like cormorants.
- Be patient, pelicans may fly or roost for long periods before actively feeding.
- Follow up on eBird reports from fellow birders to find recent sightings.
- Spring and fall migrations are the best times to see them, especially April-May and September-October.
Being aware of seasonality, preferred habitat, and typical migratory stopover sites will give birders the best chance to add one of these magnificent pelicans to their life list.
Population and Conservation Status
Here is a brief overview of population estimates and conservation status for each species:
Species | Population Estimate | Conservation Status |
---|---|---|
American White Pelican | ~143,000 breeding adults (North America) | State endangered in Indiana |
Brown Pelican | ~650,000 individuals (North America) | State and federally endangered |
Despite occasional sightings in Indiana, neither species is known to breed or maintain significant populations in the state. The main conservation needs for these pelicans are protecting breeding and coastal habitat in other parts of their range.
Differences Between Pelican Species
The two pelican species can be identified by the following differences:
Trait | American White Pelican | Brown Pelican |
---|---|---|
Size | 50-70 inches long | 45-55 inches long |
Wingspan | Up to 9 feet | Up to 7 feet |
Bill color | Yellow to orange | Grayish |
Bill shape | Long and straight | Hooked at the end |
Plumage | White with black wing tips | Dark brown body, paler head |
Preferred habitat | Inland lakes and rivers | Coastal areas |
The large size, long bills, and contrasting black-and-white plumage make the American White Pelican an unmistakable sight. The Brown Pelican is darker overall with a distinctive yellowish-gray head and neck. Learning these field marks is key to telling the two apart.
Conclusion
Pelicans are spectacular birds that migrate through Indiana each spring and fall. Birders have the best chance of spotting the American White Pelican along major rivers and lakes, especially Lake Michigan. The Brown Pelican is rarer but occasionally wanders into southern parts of the state as well. Using information on identification, preferred habitat, and migration timing can help increase the odds of observing one of these remarkable birds in Indiana.