This morning I had to search and read up on the habitat range of the White Pelican. They winter here. As I type this on my back porch the thermometer reads 112 (f) degrees. Yes, it’s in the sun, fine knock off a few points and it’s still hot!
This photograph was shot two days ago, three adults. While not breeding age, adults nonetheless.
The Rules Have Changed, Pelican
I had been told by the WMA rangers White Pelicans were staying year round in the far marshes. Technically these three, and friends, should at least be in Idaho. More northern transplants, it’s not just New Yorkers.
There are other small flocks seen now. My theory in the lowered water levels pushed them out to the edges of the WMA, like where I shot these.
Still, this shows there is another species moving into the ACE Basin full time.
A few random shots taken while catching Pelican fishing. Besides being constant action if the tide and schools of fish cooperate is the ‘others’ who are working the water also.
Below a Dolphin is also hunting on the left side of the image, a Laughing Gull hovering on the right.
Pelicans Fishing
Brown Pelican dive head first, always at the same angle to minimize the pressure when they hit the water.
Pelicans Fishing
Below, if you look carefully, you will see a Cormorant floating in the background.
Pelicans Fishing
No matter how much you practice most of the photographs taken are a miss. Shooting this is frustrating, and great fun.