Pink-backed Pelican

Pelecanus rufescens

The Pink-backed Pelican is a large water bird found in parts of Africa and southern Arabia. It is characterized by its distinctive pinkish plumage on the back and dark gray wings. This species is known for its unique feeding behavior, often forming cooperative groups to herd fish into shallow waters before scooping them up with its large bill. Pink-backed Pelicans primarily inhabit shallow freshwater and saline lakes, as well as coastal lagoons and estuaries. They are adept swimmers and fliers, often traveling long distances in search of suitable feeding grounds. Despite facing threats such as habitat loss and human disturbance, the Pink-backed Pelican's conservation status is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Freshwater and saline lakes, coastal lagoons, estuaries