American White Pelican
A typical winter bird in Port Aransas, the American White Pelican is distinctive for its nine-foot wingspan, conspicuous white body, and the improbable proportions of its large bill and pouch.
About the American White Pelican
The American White Pelican breeds on lakes throughout the northern Great Plains and western mountains and move to the coast during the winter, although a few are year-round residents in Texas.
Unlike the Brown Pelican, White Pelicans typically do not dive into the water when feeding but rather swim along dipping their bills into the water and scooping up prey in their expandable pouches.
Be sure not to confuse the American White Pelican with the endangered Whooping Crane, as their colorings are similar!