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Largest of Pelicans

While visiting the Phoenix Zoo in December of 2023, I was surprised to come across some huge pelicans. According to the zoo’s website, the Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus) is the largest in the pelican family. Their average weight is around 30 pounds.

A 400mm lens on my Nikon Z7II, got me a decent head shot while still keeping my distance. Do you see any differences between this pelican and the one I captured in Africa on “Looking Good, I Am“?

All photos are my own. ©Pepper Tron/Heavens Sunshine
No usage allowed in any form without my written consent.

Posted for Birds of the Week

I am curious to know your thoughts.

12 responses to “Largest of Pelicans”

  1. MichaelStephenWills Avatar
    MichaelStephenWills

    What an incredible encounter, Pepper! The Dalmatian Pelican is such an impressive bird—30 pounds is no small flyer! Your head shot really shows off its character, and I love how your Nikon and that 400mm lens let us get so close without intruding. I do see some subtle differences from the one in your Africa post—this one is in profile and very serious…the African bird has an epic personality! Always a treat to follow your photographic adventures.

    Reply
    1. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      Thanks for commenting, Michael. My adventure to Africa was the best adventure ever.

      Reply
  2. Cheryl Batavia Avatar
    Cheryl Batavia

    We have brown pelicans in Florida, and white pelicans that nest here. I think they are both much smaller than this one! ❤️

    Reply
    1. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      I might have to travel to Florida to see the pelicans there! 😉

      Reply
  3. Leanne Cole Avatar
    Leanne Cole

    I love pelicans, the ones here are pretty big too. Gorgeous Pepper.

    Reply
    1. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      Thanks, Leanne. I’ve only seen pelicans when we travel or in zoos. I find them so interesting. 😊

      Reply
  4. norasphotos4u Avatar
    norasphotos4u

    What a beautiful bird

    Reply
    1. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      Yes, I agree. It is different from other pelicans I have seen but still beautiful. 😊

      Reply
  5. Eliza Waters Avatar
    Eliza Waters

    Colored in monochrome gray!

    Reply
    1. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      Exactly! 😁

      Reply
  6. bushboy Avatar
    bushboy

    Definitely not the prettiest of Pelicans

    Reply
    1. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      Very true. Not as elegant as some. 😊

      Reply
error: All photos are copyrighted by Pepper Tron (aka Irene Tron & Heavens Sunshine). All rights reserved. Unauthorized use is prohibited.