Winter travelers: White pelicans join other visitors as they migrate south to Florida
As one of North America’s largest birds, the white pelican joins Florida’s other visitors during the winter as they migrate south, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission.
With a wingspan of up to 9 1/2 feet, these snowy birds can be seen along the coastline and inland waterways. During the winter, they are usually found in warm, coastal marine habitats such as protected bays and estuaries.
This grouping of the snowy-feathered birds were enjoying the sunshine of a small dock Monday in Paradise Bay Estates in Bradenton.
These foragers have a different approach to fishing than the brown pelican, according to the Audobon website, preferring to scoop fish and salamanders from the surface of the water rather than diving.
Tiffany Tompkins
Bradenton Herald