General Description: Brown Pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) are very large birds (wingspan over 6 feet) with an enormous bill and stretchy skin at the base of the bill that can expand to form a pouch when feeding. Adult Brown Pelicans are dark overall with white on the neck and head; juveniles have a dark head and light underparts. The bill is always dark (brownish or grayish). Compare with American White Pelicans.

Favored Habitat: Coastal areas, but occasionally inland rivers and lakes.

Where to Find: Unocmmon, but look for them during winter when birding at Lake Mead.

Comments: Brown Pelicans generally feed by diving head first into the water to catch fish. They sometimes also feed by dipping their long bill into the water. American White Peilcans don't dive into the water.