Dalmatian Pelican: where and when to see them

The Dalmatian pelican is one of the world's largest flying birds, with silvery plumage, a massive bill and shaggy feathers on the nape. Southeastern Europe supports important populations, including birds using Greek and Turkish wetlands. Despite its imposing size, it depends on a limited network of productive waters and secure nesting places. Wetland alteration, disturbance, power-line collisions and disease can have serious consequences for these often concentrated populations.

Size

160–183 cm long; 245–351 cm wingspan

Weight

7–15 kg

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Near Threatened

Dalmatian pelicans spend much of the day resting on undisturbed banks, islands or shallow-water margins between feeding bouts. They catch fish near the surface, sometimes coordinating loosely with other pelicans or benefiting from fish driven by cormorants. Colonies form on secluded islands, reed platforms or similar safe substrates. Adults become especially conspicuous in breeding condition, when their throat pouches brighten, but disturbance can cause costly interruptions to nesting and resting. Dalmatian pelicans are highly social birds, often forming large, cohesive flocks outside the breeding season. They are strong fliers and can travel long distances between feeding and roosting sites, sometimes using thermals to gain altitude.

• The throat pouch becomes orange-red in breeding condition.
• Its wingspan can exceed three metres.
• The pouch drains water after a fish is captured.
• Some populations move seasonally while others remain close to productive wetlands throughout the year.

Winter and early spring can be rewarding at major Greek and Turkish wetlands where birds gather or develop breeding colours. Other sites support birds in summer. The best window depends on the wetland, and nesting colonies require particularly careful protection. In Greece and Turkey, the breeding season generally extends from March to June, offering excellent opportunities to observe nesting activity. Post-breeding dispersal can lead to sightings at new locations in late summer and autumn.

Large freshwater lakes, reservoirs, river deltas and sheltered brackish lagoons are typical habitats. Suitable sites combine accessible fish with quiet roosts and secure nesting substrates. Birds may move between inland wetlands and coastal waters as water levels and food availability change. These large birds require extensive areas of shallow, unpolluted water. They are typically found in lowland wetlands, rarely venturing into mountainous regions.

Fish make up almost the entire diet, with species and sizes varying among wetlands. The expandable throat pouch acts as a capture basket rather than a food-storage bag. Water is drained before the fish is positioned and swallowed. Prey commonly includes carp, roach, and mullet, caught by dipping their bills into the water while swimming. They are opportunistic feeders and will take whatever fish species are locally abundant.

Common name

Dalmatian Pelican

Scientific name

Pelecanus crispus

Animal group

Birds

Size

160–183 cm long; 245–351 cm wingspan

Weight

7–15 kg

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Near Threatened

Identification

Silvery-grey plumage, pale legs and a curly nape distinguish it from the warmer-toned great white pelican with pinkish legs and a more contrasting flight pattern. Juveniles are browner overall with a darker, greyish pouch and a less prominent crest. The adult's shaggy neck feathers form a distinctive 'mane' particularly visible during courtship.