Hilton Heads Prized Pelicans

Hilton Head is home to these magnificent birds; you may see them gliding thru the air or perched down at the marina by our boats. The type of Pelican that are local to Hilton Head are the Brown Pelican and you have a very high chance of being able to see these wonderful birds on our Dolphin and Nature Cruise. To watch these bird’s soar thru the sky is a sight to behold. They are so majestic and graceful for their size.

The Brown Pelican are about 4 feet tall and can have a wingspan around 6 ½ feet wide. They have a large dark throat pouch and bill. They are 3 years of age before they reach breeding maturity. You will be able to tell the difference between breeding and non-breeding by the color of their neck feathers. The nonbreeding birds have a white or lighter colored neck and the breeding adults have a dark colored neck. They are monogamous for the entirety of each breeding season. They have 1 brood per year laying 2-4 white eggs. They build their nests out of sticks, grass and reeds. The incubation period is 28-30 days and the fledging period is an additional 70-90 days. Both parents assist with these responsibilities.

Pelicans are very social birds and are usually found in groups. They frequently travel in groups of about 8-10 birds. You will see them flying together in a V formation. One of the Pelicans habits that I find so interesting to watch is how they feed. They will be flying when all of a sudden they see something and dive to grab dinner. The Pelicans preferred food are mostly schooling fish; mullet, menhaden, herring and minnows. They use their bill as a scoop and skim along the top of the water gathering food and water. They are then able to push the water out with just the fish remaining. They swallow the fish whole. They are not slow about this process either, they can glide over the water at 30mph. Pelicans are a fun bird to watch and learn about. You will be able to see these beautiful birds on our Dolphin and Nature Tour.

Come on out to Hilton Head and take our Dolphin and Nature Tour to see this bird, dolphins and learn so much more about our wonderful Island!