Meet Our Animals > American White Pelican

Quick Facts

Native to In summer, found in the inland wetlands of Canada and the northern U.S., including Wisconsin – in winter, wetlands along the Gulf of Mexico and Pacific Coast

Primary Diet Mostly small fish found in shallow wetlands, such as minnow, carp, and suckers

Adult Weight 11 to 20 pounds

Lifespan 12 to 30 years

Status Least Concern

American White Pelican

American white pelicans are some of the heaviest flying birds in the world. They rely on their large wings to soar great distances in large flocks. American white pelicans feed from the surface of the water, often hunting fish communally by circling their prey before plunging and scooping fish out of the water. They spend much of their time on the coasts, but they mainly breed in inland areas.