Last spring, I saw this group of White Pelicans involved in cooperative foraging near Island Park, Idaho. All About Birds describes their feeding behavior as follows:
They forage by swimming on the surface, dipping their bills to scoop up fish, then raising their bills to drain water and swallow their prey. They also forage cooperatively: groups of birds dip their bills and flap their wings to drive fish toward shore, corraling prey for highly efficient, synchronized, bill-dipping feasts.
Do you know what a group of pelicans are called? They are called a squadron, pod, pouch, or scoop of pelicans.
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It looks beautiful there.
Yeah, it was a pretty spot, Liz!
I loved the post, Siobhan. What interesting behavior these birds have!
Thanks, Egidio! It’s kind of like they herd their prey.
I love the white pelicans! They are so much fun to see in the wild.
Yes, I like seeing them as well. They are such unique birds!
I always know Pelicans as a Squadron. Their fishing method is so good. A lovely spot to watch the birds
I never knew that name for them. I read it’s because of how they fly together. Yes, the way they fish is interesting, Brian. I always feel lucky when I see them fishing or flying.
Interesting quote; I wish you are able to see that behaviour sometime
Thanks! Yes, it’s great to see them working together.
I never knew that pelicans cooperate like that!
Yeah, Sarah, it’s almost like they work together as a pack.