I spotted a group of white pelicans swimming not far from the shore, and found a flat rock near the water’s edge to sit and watch the graceful swimmers. They seemed to glide effortlessly in the water.
I was impressed by one expert fisher as it shimmied along the surface of the lake, using its beak and the gular pouch attached to its jaw to catch and scoop up food like a net. Then it tilted its head down to drain the water from the pouch, and back to swallow the catch.
Another pelican, abruptly disturbed from its afternoon nap where it huddled on a crowded log, let out a lazy yawn.
I enjoyed watching the pelicans play a game of “tag” as one circled around a log lined with other pelicans. The pelican that was tagged was obliged to find a new spot to sit, and didn’t appear too happy about it. Instead of making noise, the pelicans communicated through wing flapping and bill snapping.
Watching these lovely birds was relaxing, fascinating, and entertaining, all at the same time.
“There is a way that nature speaks … Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story.” ~Linda Hogan
walking on a country road 
Loved watching their behavior, a species I never see here. Thanks for sharing the videos!
They migrate through here in the spring and fall. I really enjoy seeing them.
Great photos and wonderful videos.
Thanks, Timothy!
Yes, beautiful white pelicans — videos bring back memories of seeing pelicans.
They are a joy to watch. Thanks, James.
I enjoyed all the photos Rebecca and the videos especially. That one pelican, all on his own, gliding and catching fish simultaneously. The second video was interesting behavior because I can’t recall ever seeing photos of pelicans fighting with one another – that was some impressive bill snapping. Even when the pelicans preen, as many of them on the log were doing, that is amazing to watch how they use the mighty long bills they have to contend with.
I had never watched one catching fish before. I thought it was interesting. Yes, their long, awkward looking bills do seem to serve them well for many purposes. I’m not sure that I’d want to be on the receiving end. 🙂
That was fascinating watching one catch a fish. I see these birds with the long bills, even the Herons and Egrets and wonder how they don’t injure themselves preening.
they can eat and drink at the same time ,how convenient!
Great shots and video Rebecca!
Thanks, Wayne!
Nice photos of these imposing birds. I find them fascinating and could watch them for hours.
Thanks! Yes, I love to watch them. Their presence tends to draw you in.
I love these photos and videos, Rebecca! Looks like it was a beautiful day for pelican watching🤗.
A wonderful quote from Linda Horgan, too – thanks for sharing this.
Oops, Hogan ☺️
Thanks! Yes, it was a perfect day and the pelicans were close enough to shore to enjoy.
So fun!!