American White Pelican vs Brown Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos compared with Pelecanus occidentalis

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute American White Pelican Brown Pelican
Scientific Name Pelecanus erythrorhynchos Pelecanus occidentalis
Order Pelecaniformes Pelecaniformes
Family Pelecanidae Pelecanidae
Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern
Length
Wingspan 112.2 cm (44.2 in) 98.9 cm (38.9 in)
Weight 6530.0 g (230.34 oz) 3040.0 g (107.23 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 1-6 2-3
Population Trend

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

American White Pelican only

Brown Pelican only

None

Conservation Status

Least Concern

American White Pelican

Least Concern

Brown Pelican

About These Birds

American White Pelican

The American White Pelican is one of North America's largest birds, weighing 6,530 g with an enormous 112.2 cm wingspan and brilliant white plumage. It feeds cooperatively on fish in freshwater lakes and wetlands, herding prey with synchronized swimming rather than diving.

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