Spot-billed Pelican

The Spot-billed Pelican, or Gray Pelican, is a member of the pelican family, distinguished by its size, which is smaller than other regional pelicans, and its distinctive plumage. It has a white body with a grey crest and a brownish tail. The feathers on the hind neck are curly, forming a greyish nape crest. The pouch is pink to purplish with large pale spots, and the upper mandible is similarly spotted. The bill's tip is yellow to orange, and the bird's overall length ranges from 125 to 152 cm, with a wingspan of 213 to 250 cm.

Identification Tips

At a distance, the Spot-billed Pelican may be confused with other pelicans, but upon closer inspection, the spots on the upper mandible and the lack of bright colors set it apart. The greyer plumage and the rounder tail are also key identification features. The breeding plumage includes a dark base of the beak and a pink orbital patch.

Habitat

This species favors large inland and coastal waters, particularly large lakes, where it can be found in shallow lowland freshwaters.

Distribution

The Spot-billed Pelican breeds in southern Asia, from southern Iran across India to Indonesia. It is not migratory but may make local movements, with a wider distribution in the non-breeding season.

Behaviour

Spot-billed Pelicans are generally silent, but they can produce hisses, grunts, or bill snaps at their nests. They fish singly or in small flocks, often soaring on thermals during the day. They may forage at night and nest in colonies, often alongside other waterbirds.

Song & Calls

The Spot-billed Pelican is typically silent, with vocalizations limited to the nesting period.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in colonies, with nests made of twigs on low trees near wetlands. The breeding season varies, with courtship involving head movements and bill claps. Clutches usually consist of three to four chalky white eggs.

Similar Species

The Dalmatian Pelican is similar in flight but has darker tertials and inner secondaries, and a pale band along the greater coverts.

Diet and Feeding

The Spot-billed Pelican catches fish in its bill pouch while swimming. It does not form large feeding flocks and may fish at night.

Conservation status

The Spot-billed Pelican is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and human disturbance. However, populations in southern India are thought to be on the rise, and increased protection has led to a recovery in numbers.