Pelicans are rare in the part of the country where I live, so I got my knowledge of these special birds mainly from documentaries I watched as a kid. I learned that there are seven species of pelicans and that they have an average life span of 15 years and that they have been around on this planet a long time – for about 40 million years. 

It was therefore my pleasure to enjoy the sight of these fascinating birds when I visited the Dry Tortuga national park south of Key West, Florida. I was amazed by the behavior and grace of these large birds, and I watched them for hours from the beach.

The white pelicans tend to feast in groups, eating mainly fish which they locate with their sensitive elongated bill. It is incredible to see how quick they are, diving down to the water when they finally have spotted a fish. And when their massive pouch is filled with fish and water their bodies get heavy and they must make an effort, expand their wings and contract their muscles, to raise up in the air in order to get to the young ones so they can be fed. 

The water make splashes, and the Pelican is again on its way. Away from sight. 

Will it be found on an altitude of 1000 meters next? This is common for pelicans and it is possible due to its extremely light skeleton, which weighs less than 10% of the total body weight. 

Even though my lack of interaction with pelicans before, they can be found all across the world, with Antarctica as an exception. I was struck in awe that day on the beach. What I witnessed, I will always remember – and pray that I will live to see it once again.