Massive pelican with a disheveled appearance. Dirty white overall with a scruffy, upswept crest and black primaries (prominent only in flight). Breeding adult has a bright orange pouch; otherwise faded yellow. Can be confused with Spot-billed Pelican and Great White Pelican, but has a combination of pale iris, clean bill with no spotting, and gray legs. Frequents rivers, extensive wetlands, and estuaries, often in large flocks.
Mandrensko Lake, Bulgaria. May 2016.
Posted by sue.milks on 2020-07-26 17:03:11
Tagged: , Burgas , Bulgaria , Sub-adult