African Pelican: Graceful Birds of the Wetlands
The African pelican (Pelecanus rufescens), also known as the pink-backed pelican, is a prominent waterbird found in steppe-adjacent lakes, rivers, and wetlands. With a wingspan of over 3 meters and a characteristic long, yellow bill with a large pouch, African pelicans are both elegant and functional in their design.
These birds are expert fishers, often working in groups to drive fish into shallower waters where they can scoop them up with precision. The bill pouch, an iconic feature, allows them to hold large amounts of water and drain it, leaving only their prey behind. In addition to fish, pelicans consume amphibians and small invertebrates, playing a critical role in the aquatic food chain.
African pelicans are also highly social, forming large colonies for breeding and nesting. They build nests in trees or on the ground, depending on the availability of resources. However, habitat degradation caused by pollution, drought, and human activity threatens their populations. Efforts to protect wetlands are essential for the survival of these magnificent birds.