The White Pelican inhabits areas around freshwater lakes. It is one of the largest birds in the world. It weighs between 12 and 15 pounds and has a wingspan of up to 10 feet. Under the long flat bill is a yellow-orange pouch that is used when feeding. A pale yellow crest appears on the back of the head when the pelican is breeding.
Young pelicans look much like the adults but have a gray patch on the neck and the back of the head.
Their eyes are usually brown while the eyes of adult pelicans are orange-yellow. Many times White Pelicans are mistaken for whooping cranes or snow geese. These birds fly with outstretched necks while the pelicans double their neck into their body when in flight. The pelican's bright orange feet and yellow bill distinguishes it from other birds. Pelicans fly in a V formation.