Pelican invades Southern California beaches!

What was once a rarity, pelicans have been spotted on Southern California's beaches in record numbers over the past few years. The cause of this phenomena is unknown, but it has been speculated that the birds' range has been expanding as the climate has been warming.

Pelicans are large, aquatic birds that feed primarily on fish. They typically inhabit coastal areas and bays, but have been known to venture inland in search of food. In Southern California, they are typically seen near Dana Point, Newport Beach, and San Diego. They can be easily identified by their large bills and distinctive black and white plumage.

While pelicans are not considered to be threatened or endangered species, their increasing presence in Southern California is causing some concern among locals and scientists alike. Some worry that the birds may be displacing other native species or competing for food resources. Others caution that the pelicans may be susceptible to environmental hazards such as oil spills and pollution.

The increase in pelican sightings in Southern California is likely due to several factors including changes in food availability, habitat availability, and climate change. It is important to note that pelicans are generalist feeders and can adapt to a wide range of habitats and food sources. Thus, it is likely that they will continue to invade Southern California's beaches in increasing numbers as the climate continues to warm.

Why pelicans are drawing attention to San Diego Bay

The Brown Pelican, the state bird of Louisiana, is drawing attention to San Diego Bay. Endangered in the 1970s, their populations have made a comeback and they now frequent the area.

Pelicans are attracted by the ample food supply in the Bay. Anchovies and other small fish are plentiful here and pelicans can often be seen diving for their dinner.

They are also interesting creatures to watch. With their large wingspans, they can soar gracefully over the water or plunge-dive for a fish. Their pouch-like beaks can hold an amazing amount of food and they often disgorge their catch before landing on the water's surface.

Some people may be surprised to learn that pelicans are actually very playful birds. They will often team up together when fishing, chasing schools of fish until one is caught. Then they all share in the meal!

For locals and visitors alike, seeing pelicans on San Diego Bay is a sure sign that summer is here!

Pelicans spotted in record numbers on Oregon Coast

Oregonians were in for a surprise earlier this week when flocks of pelicans were spotted in record numbers on the state's coast. Birders and amateur ornithologists were thrilled to get a glimpse of the large, migratory birds, which are typically seen much farther south.

According to experts, the unusual sighting is likely due to the unseasonably warm weather that the region has been experiencing. Warmer temperatures have been drawing pelicans northward from their traditional wintering grounds in California and Baja California.

The influx of pelicans has delighted locals and tourists alike, with many taking photos and posting sightings on social media. Some lucky observers even got to see the birds flying in formation or "pod" hunting for fish offshore.

While pelicans can be seen year-round in Oregon, they are typically only present in small numbers. The record number of sightings this year is testament to the warming trend that the Pacific Northwest is experiencing.

Many climate scientists believe that the Earth is undergoing rapid climate change, with warmer temperatures and more extreme weather events becoming increasingly common. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact ecosystems and species around the world.

In the meantime, Oregonians can enjoy the sight of these beautiful avian visitors while they last. With spring just around the corner, it's likely that the pelicans will start making their way back south soon.

San Francisco pelican love affair continues unabated

For years, San Franciscans have been charmed by the city's population of pelicans. The big, goofy seabirds have been a fixture of the city's skyline for as long as anyone can remember, and they show no signs of leaving any time soon.

The pelicans first arrived in San Francisco in the early 1990s, and since then their numbers have steadily grown. Some locals have even taken to calling them the "new lizards" of the city, and they've become a popular tourist attraction.

What is it about these pelicans that has won San Franciscans' hearts? Perhaps it's their clumsy, awkward charm. Or maybe it's the fact that they're such photogenic creatures. Whatever it is, the love affair between San Franciscans and pelicans looks like it's here to stay.

A day in the life of a pelican: Fascinating new photos reveal intimate details about these birds' habits

For centuries, pelicans have been captivating humans with their large size and unearthly grace. And while much is known about their migration patterns and mating habits, newly released photographs by the Biodiversity Research Institute offer an unprecedented look at the daily lives of these birds.

The photographs were taken as part of a study on pelican feeding behavior in the Morro Bay estuary in California. They reveal that pelicans are not just indiscriminate scavengers, but are actually quite particular about what they eat.

Pelicans are able to adjust their diets depending on the season and the availability of food sources. In winter, when there is less available prey, they mainly eat fish; but in summer, they also consume a lot of insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates.

The photos also show that pelicans often work together to feed, with one bird diving down to catch prey while the others wait nearby to snatch any scraps that fall to the ground. This coordinated hunting strategy allows them to maximize their food intake without wasting any energy.

In addition to their diet, the photos also provide new insights into pelican social behavior. For example, they show that young pelicans learn how to hunt from their parents, and that male and female pelicans often cooperate in raising chicks.

Altogether, these images offer a fascinating new glimpse into the everyday lives of these extraordinary creatures. So next time you see a pelican soaring overhead, take a moment to appreciate all that we still don't know about these magnificent animals.