Brown Pelican Photos

Brown Pelican Stock Photos by Professional Photographer Phillip Colla. Brown Pelican stock photography.

Brown pelican in flight against pastel-colored sky at sunrise.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight against pastel-colored sky at sunrise. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
Brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs.
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Note the classic winter breeding plumage, with bright red throat, yellow and white head and neck, and brown hind neck. Other pelicans and cormorants at the periphery of the image hint at how crowded the cliff is with other birds, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Note the classic winter breeding plumage, with bright red throat, yellow and white head and neck, and brown hind neck. Other pelicans and cormorants at the periphery of the image hint at how crowded the cliff is with other birds.
During winter months California brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) adopt striking plumage. The gular pouch (throat) of adults transitions from olive green to bright red. Breeding adults are characterized primarily by a dark brown hindneck, and may also show a yellow patch at the base of the foreneck. Nonbreeding adults retain the white hindneck but, since they also may display a red gular pouch, they are sometimes mistaken for breeders. Head coloration in adults can be white, yellow or a mix of the two, and becomes speckled during molt or chick-feeding.
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult non-breeding plumage coloration, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult non-breeding plumage coloration.
A California Brown Pelican flying over the Pacific Ocean, spreads its large wings wide to slow down as it banks, turns in midair, to land on seacliffs in La Jolla. Winter adult non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis
A California Brown Pelican flying over the Pacific Ocean, spreads its large wings wide to slow down as it banks, turns in midair, to land on seacliffs in La Jolla. Winter adult non-breeding plumage.
Brown Pelican Closeup Portrait Intense Stare, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown Pelican Closeup Portrait Intense Stare.
Perfect California brown pelican breeding plumage portrait, with brown hind neck, yellow head and bright red throat, perched on rock over the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Perfect California brown pelican breeding plumage portrait, with brown hind neck, yellow head and bright red throat, perched on rock over the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla.
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California brown pelican in flight, braking to land on seacliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, braking to land on seacliffs.
Brown Pelicans on Goldfish Point in La Jolla, time exposure blurs the large waves, aerial photograph.  In the summer we used to jump off the cliff (the "Clam") in front of the twin cave entrances seen at middle-right, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Brown Pelicans on Goldfish Point in La Jolla, time exposure blurs the large waves, aerial photograph. In the summer we used to jump off the cliff (the "Clam") in front of the twin cave entrances seen at middle-right.
Spectacular Brown Pelican Head Throw Display. This California brown pelican is arching its head and neck way back, opening its mouth in a behavior known as a head throw or bill throw, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Spectacular Brown Pelican Head Throw Display. This California brown pelican is arching its head and neck way back, opening its mouth in a behavior known as a head throw or bill throw.
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy.
Brown pelican in flight, softly lit by flash against pink predawn sky, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight, softly lit by flash against pink predawn sky.
Brown Pelicans gather in large numbers on coastal cliffs, Goldfish Point near the Clam in La Jolla. Aerial photograph, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Brown Pelicans gather in large numbers on coastal cliffs, Goldfish Point near the Clam in La Jolla. Aerial photograph.
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch. Note the winter breeding plumage, yellow head, red and olive throat, pink skin around the eye, brown hind neck with some white neck side detail, gray breast and body, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch. Note the winter breeding plumage, yellow head, red and olive throat, pink skin around the eye, brown hind neck with some white neck side detail, gray breast and body.
Brown pelican flying while entangled in plastic bag wrapped around its neck. I believe the pelican probably became entangled in the bag by mistaking the floating plastic for food and diving on it, spearing it in such a way that the bag has lodged around the pelican's neck, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican flying while entangled in plastic bag wrapped around its neck. I believe the pelican probably became entangled in the bag by mistaking the floating plastic for food and diving on it, spearing it in such a way that the bag has lodged around the pelican's neck.
White headed morph of a California brown pelican in breeding plumage portrait, with brown hind neck and bright red throat but lacking yellow head, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis, La Jolla
White headed morph of a California brown pelican in breeding plumage portrait, with brown hind neck and bright red throat but lacking yellow head.
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult breeding plumage coloration, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult breeding plumage coloration.
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
Brown pelican flying over waves and the surf.  Pelicans ride the updrafts of waves enabling them to glide long distances while minimizing the energy exerted by flapping wings, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican flying over waves and the surf. Pelicans ride the updrafts of waves enabling them to glide long distances while minimizing the energy exerted by flapping wings.
A brown pelican preening, reaching with its beak to the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A brown pelican preening, reaching with its beak to the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Note the winter mating plumage, olive and red throat, yellow head, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Note the winter mating plumage, olive and red throat, yellow head.
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
A California Brown Pelican flying over the Pacific Ocean, spreads its large wings wide to slow down as it banks, turns in midair, to land on seacliffs in La Jolla. Winter adult non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis
A California Brown Pelican flying over the Pacific Ocean, spreads its large wings wide to slow down as it banks, turns in midair, to land on seacliffs in La Jolla. Winter adult non-breeding plumage.
Brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs.
Brown pelican in flight with wings spread wide, slowing as it returns from the ocean to land on seacliffs, adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight with wings spread wide, slowing as it returns from the ocean to land on seacliffs, adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California brown pelican winter breeding plumage portrait, this adult is gently clapping its jaws, showing brown hind neck with yellow head, red and olive throat pouch, white with yellow chevron on the breast, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican winter breeding plumage portrait, this adult is gently clapping its jaws, showing brown hind neck with yellow head, red and olive throat pouch, white with yellow chevron on the breast.
California Brown Pelican Portrait With Twisted Neck, overcast light, winter adult breeding plumage, head twisted to face backwards as it preens, eyes locked on camera, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican Portrait With Twisted Neck, overcast light, winter adult breeding plumage, head twisted to face backwards as it preens, eyes locked on camera.
Brown Pelicans Flying Along Sheer Ocean Cliffs, rare westerly winds associated with a storm allow pelicans to glide along La Jolla's cliffs as they approach shelves and outcroppings on which to land. Backlit by rising sun during stormy conditions, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Brown Pelicans Flying Along Sheer Ocean Cliffs, rare westerly winds associated with a storm allow pelicans to glide along La Jolla's cliffs as they approach shelves and outcroppings on which to land. Backlit by rising sun during stormy conditions.
California Brown pelican in flight, La Jolla, wings outstretched, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Adult winter breeding plumage colors, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Brown pelican in flight, La Jolla, wings outstretched, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Adult winter breeding plumage colors.
Brown pelican in flight.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California brown pelican, portrait in pink-purple predawn light, rests on sandstone seabluff.  The characteristic mating plumage of the California race of brown pelican is shown, with red gular throat pouch and dark brown hindneck colors, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican, portrait in pink-purple predawn light, rests on sandstone seabluff. The characteristic mating plumage of the California race of brown pelican is shown, with red gular throat pouch and dark brown hindneck colors.
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California Brown pelican in flight, soaring along sea cliffs above the ocean in La Jolla, California. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Brown pelican in flight, soaring along sea cliffs above the ocean in La Jolla, California. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs, dark background caused by seacliffs in morning shadow, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs, dark background caused by seacliffs in morning shadow.
Brown pelican in flight with wings spread wide, slowing as it returns from the ocean to land on seacliffs, adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight with wings spread wide, slowing as it returns from the ocean to land on seacliffs, adult winter non-breeding plumage.
Pelican yoga, Utthita Tadasana, extended mountain pose with backbend. A California brown pelican preening, rubbing the back of its head and neck on the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Adult winter breeding plumage showing brown hindneck and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Pelican yoga, Utthita Tadasana, extended mountain pose with backbend. A California brown pelican preening, rubbing the back of its head and neck on the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Adult winter breeding plumage showing brown hindneck and red gular throat pouch.
California Brown Pelican Portrait, immature with head tucked into feathers, resting and staring at the camera, overcast light, immature/juvenile plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican Portrait, immature with head tucked into feathers, resting and staring at the camera, overcast light, immature/juvenile plumage.
Brown pelican flying over waves and the surf, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican flying over waves and the surf.
Yellow morph of the California brown pelican in flight.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Yellow morph of the California brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
This California Brown Pelican has its wings spread full wide as it flies over the ocean. The wingspan of the brown pelican can reach 7 feet wide, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
This California Brown Pelican has its wings spread full wide as it flies over the ocean. The wingspan of the brown pelican can reach 7 feet wide.
Endangered Brown Pelican Flying with Wings Spread Ready to Land. The brown pelican's wingspan can reach 7 feet, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis, La Jolla, California
Endangered Brown Pelican Flying with Wings Spread Ready to Land. The brown pelican's wingspan can reach 7 feet.
California Brown Pelican claps its jaws, sometimes rapidly several times, perhaps to dislodge debris or simply because its fun and feels good. This is not the same as the "yawn" that precedes a head throw. Adult winter breeding plumage with brown hind-neck, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican claps its jaws, sometimes rapidly several times, perhaps to dislodge debris or simply because its fun and feels good. This is not the same as the "yawn" that precedes a head throw. Adult winter breeding plumage with brown hind-neck.
Adult California brown pelican in transition from non-breeding to breeding winter plumage. Note the brown hind neck of a breeding brown pelican is just filling in. This pelican already displays the red and olive throat and white and yellow head feathers of an adult winter brown pelican, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Adult California brown pelican in transition from non-breeding to breeding winter plumage. Note the brown hind neck of a breeding brown pelican is just filling in. This pelican already displays the red and olive throat and white and yellow head feathers of an adult winter brown pelican.
Spectacular Brown Pelican Head Throw Display. This California brown pelican extends its head and bill up and back, stretching its neck and pouch in a behavior known as a head throw or bill throw. Adult winter breeding plumage.  Pelican yoga, High Mountain pose, Tadasan, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Spectacular Brown Pelican Head Throw Display. This California brown pelican extends its head and bill up and back, stretching its neck and pouch in a behavior known as a head throw or bill throw. Adult winter breeding plumage. Pelican yoga, High Mountain pose, Tadasan.
Marichyasana, sage twist pose, pelican yoga. Brown pelican doing yoga, actually its preening, bending its neck back to spread preen oil on the back of the head and neck,  likely second winter coloration, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Marichyasana, sage twist pose, pelican yoga. Brown pelican doing yoga, actually its preening, bending its neck back to spread preen oil on the back of the head and neck, likely second winter coloration.
California Brown Pelican Flying over the Ocean, wings outstretch, with a few other pelicans in the background, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican Flying over the Ocean, wings outstretch, with a few other pelicans in the background.
California Brown Pelican banking and turning as it flies over the ocean, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican banking and turning as it flies over the ocean.
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult breeding plumage coloration, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult breeding plumage coloration.
Pelican in Flight over Huge Waves in La Jolla, foamy ocean background, adult winter breeding plumage, wings spread wide, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Pelican in Flight over Huge Waves in La Jolla, foamy ocean background, adult winter breeding plumage, wings spread wide.
Yellow morph California brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with distinctive winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers. Note the unusual yellow gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Yellow morph California brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with distinctive winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers. Note the unusual yellow gular throat pouch.
A brown pelican preening, uropygial gland (preen gland) visible near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Note adult winter breeding plumage in display, with brown neck, red gular throat pouch and yellow and white head.  This adult is just transitioning to the brown hind neck that characterizes breeding brown pelicans, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A brown pelican preening, uropygial gland (preen gland) visible near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Note adult winter breeding plumage in display, with brown neck, red gular throat pouch and yellow and white head. This adult is just transitioning to the brown hind neck that characterizes breeding brown pelicans.
Brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs.
A brown pelican preening, reaching with its beak to the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A brown pelican preening, reaching with its beak to the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry.
California Brown Pelican flying over a breaking wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican flying over a breaking wave.
California brown pelican spreads its wings wide as it slows before landing on seacliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican spreads its wings wide as it slows before landing on seacliffs.
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched.  The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  Adult winter non-breeding plumage showing white hindneck and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched. The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage showing white hindneck and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter non-breeding plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch but white hind neck, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter non-breeding plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch but white hind neck.
A California Brown Pelican flying over the Pacific Ocean, spreads its large wings wide to slow down as it banks, turns in midair, to land on seacliffs in La Jolla. Winter adult non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis
A California Brown Pelican flying over the Pacific Ocean, spreads its large wings wide to slow down as it banks, turns in midair, to land on seacliffs in La Jolla. Winter adult non-breeding plumage.
Brown Pelican Performs Yoga Pose Baddha Virabhadrasana, also known as Devotional Warrior or Humble Warrior. Winter adult non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis, La Jolla, California
Brown Pelican Performs Yoga Pose Baddha Virabhadrasana, also known as Devotional Warrior or Humble Warrior. Winter adult non-breeding plumage.
Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Cliffs in Background, partially side lit at sunrise, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Cliffs in Background, partially side lit at sunrise.
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult non-breeding plumage coloration, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A perfect Brown Pelican Head Throw with Distant Ocean in Background, bending over backwards, stretching its neck and gular pouch, winter adult non-breeding plumage coloration.
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Adult winter non-breeding plumage.
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch. This adult is just transitioning to the brown hind neck characteristic of the brown pelican breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch. This adult is just transitioning to the brown hind neck characteristic of the brown pelican breeding plumage.
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave.
California Brown Pelican flying over a breaking wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican flying over a breaking wave.
California brown pelican preening, beak and feather detail, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican preening, beak and feather detail.
Brown pelican flying over waves and the surf, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican flying over waves and the surf.
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave.
Brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with winter breeding plumage including distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with winter breeding plumage including distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican head throw.  During a bill throw, the pelican arches its neck back, lifting its large bill upward and stretching its throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican head throw. During a bill throw, the pelican arches its neck back, lifting its large bill upward and stretching its throat pouch.
Study of a California brown pelican in winter breeding plumage, yellow head, red and olive throat, pink skin around the eye, brown hind neck with some white neck side detail, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Study of a California brown pelican in winter breeding plumage, yellow head, red and olive throat, pink skin around the eye, brown hind neck with some white neck side detail.
Endangered Brown Pelican Flying with Wings Spread Ready to Land. The brown pelican's wingspan can reach 7 feet, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis, La Jolla, California
Endangered Brown Pelican Flying with Wings Spread Ready to Land. The brown pelican's wingspan can reach 7 feet.
Ghostly California brown pelican glides over breaking surf, abstract with motion blur and pastel pre-dawn colors, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Ghostly California brown pelican glides over breaking surf, abstract with motion blur and pastel pre-dawn colors.
California Brown Pelican Flying over the Ocean, early morning light just after sunrise, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican Flying over the Ocean, early morning light just after sunrise.
Brown Pelican Flying Along Sheer Ocean Cliffs, rare westerly winds associated with a storm allow pelicans to glide along La Jolla's cliffs as they approach shelves and outcroppings on which to land. Backlit by rising sun during stormy conditions, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Brown Pelican Flying Along Sheer Ocean Cliffs, rare westerly winds associated with a storm allow pelicans to glide along La Jolla's cliffs as they approach shelves and outcroppings on which to land. Backlit by rising sun during stormy conditions.
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, La Jolla coastline in the distant background, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, La Jolla coastline in the distant background.
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave.
California Brown Pelican flying over a breaking wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican flying over a breaking wave.
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican, golden sunrise light, winter adult breeding plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck plumage of breeding adults. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican, golden sunrise light, winter adult breeding plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck plumage of breeding adults. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning.
Brown pelican in flight.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
Brown pelican slows to land, spreading its large wings wide to brake, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican slows to land, spreading its large wings wide to brake.
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched.  Adult winter breeding plumage.  The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  Adult winter breeding plumage showing brown hindneck and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched. Adult winter breeding plumage. The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter breeding plumage showing brown hindneck and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican portrait, scratching throat pouch, displaying winter plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch but not yet displaying the brown hind neck feathers, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican portrait, scratching throat pouch, displaying winter plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch but not yet displaying the brown hind neck feathers.
California brown pelican preening, the tip of the bill seen spreading preen oil on feathers, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican preening, the tip of the bill seen spreading preen oil on feathers.
Brown pelican head throw in soft pre-sunrise light, adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican head throw in soft pre-sunrise light, adult winter non-breeding plumage.
Brown pelican head throw in soft pre-sunrise light, adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican head throw in soft pre-sunrise light, adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California Brown Pelican claps its jaws, sometimes rapidly several times, perhaps to dislodge debris or simply because its fun and feels good. This is not the same as the "yawn" that precedes a head throw. Adult winter non-breeding plumage. Mandible clap, jaw clap, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican claps its jaws, sometimes rapidly several times, perhaps to dislodge debris or simply because its fun and feels good. This is not the same as the "yawn" that precedes a head throw. Adult winter non-breeding plumage. Mandible clap, jaw clap.
Juvenile California Brown Pelican Flying over the Ocean, early morning light just after sunrise, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Juvenile California Brown Pelican Flying over the Ocean, early morning light just after sunrise.
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy.
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave.
A California brown pelican entangled in a plastic bag which is wrapped around its neck.  This unfortunate pelican probably became entangled in the bag by mistaking the floating plastic for food and diving on it, spearing it in such a way that the bag has lodged around the pelican's neck.  Plastic bags kill and injure untold numbers of marine animals each year, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
A California brown pelican entangled in a plastic bag which is wrapped around its neck. This unfortunate pelican probably became entangled in the bag by mistaking the floating plastic for food and diving on it, spearing it in such a way that the bag has lodged around the pelican's neck. Plastic bags kill and injure untold numbers of marine animals each year.
Portrait of California brown pelican, with the characteristic winter mating plumage shown: red throat, yellow head and dark brown hindneck, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Portrait of California brown pelican, with the characteristic winter mating plumage shown: red throat, yellow head and dark brown hindneck.
California brown pelican, showing characteristic winter plumage including red/olive throat, brown hindneck, yellow and white head colors, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican, showing characteristic winter plumage including red/olive throat, brown hindneck, yellow and white head colors.
Brown pelican, winter adult breeding plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck plumage of breeding adults.  This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican, winter adult breeding plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck plumage of breeding adults. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning.
Brown pelican in flight in golden early-morning light.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight in golden early-morning light. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
Brown Pelican on Pedestal Rock Portrait at Sunrise, adult non-breeding winter plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown Pelican on Pedestal Rock Portrait at Sunrise, adult non-breeding winter plumage.
Sunrise Portrait of Brown Pelican Perched Over the Pacific Ocean, non-breeding adult winter plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Sunrise Portrait of Brown Pelican Perched Over the Pacific Ocean, non-breeding adult winter plumage.
Large Flock of Brown Pelicans Take Flight From Ocean Cliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Large Flock of Brown Pelicans Take Flight From Ocean Cliffs.
Brown pelican in flight. Adult winter non-breeding plumage. Brown pelicans were formerly an endangered species. In 1972, the United States Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of DDT in part to protect bird species like the brown pelican . Since that time, populations of pelicans have recovered and expanded. The recovery has been so successful that brown pelicans were taken off the endangered species list in 2009, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight. Adult winter non-breeding plumage. Brown pelicans were formerly an endangered species. In 1972, the United States Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of DDT in part to protect bird species like the brown pelican . Since that time, populations of pelicans have recovered and expanded. The recovery has been so successful that brown pelicans were taken off the endangered species list in 2009.
This California Brown Pelican has its wings spread full wide as it flies over the ocean. The wingspan of the brown pelican can reach 7 feet wide, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
This California Brown Pelican has its wings spread full wide as it flies over the ocean. The wingspan of the brown pelican can reach 7 feet wide.
California brown pelican carrying nesting material as it flies over the ocean with its wings spread wide, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican carrying nesting material as it flies over the ocean with its wings spread wide.
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Note the classic winter breeding plumage, with bright red throat, yellow and white head and neck, and brown hind neck. Other birds at the periphery of the image hint at how crowded the cliff is, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs. Note the classic winter breeding plumage, with bright red throat, yellow and white head and neck, and brown hind neck. Other birds at the periphery of the image hint at how crowded the cliff is.
California Brown Pelican claps its jaws mandibles, sometimes rapidly several times, perhaps to dislodge debris or simply because its fun and feels good. This is not the same as the "yawn" that precedes a head throw. Adult winter breeding plumage with brown hind-neck, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican claps its jaws mandibles, sometimes rapidly several times, perhaps to dislodge debris or simply because its fun and feels good. This is not the same as the "yawn" that precedes a head throw. Adult winter breeding plumage with brown hind-neck.
California Brown pelican in flight, soaring along sea cliffs above the ocean in La Jolla, California. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Brown pelican in flight, soaring along sea cliffs above the ocean in La Jolla, California. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.
Brown pelicans jousting, with bright red throat, yellow and white head and brown hind neck, winter plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelicans jousting, with bright red throat, yellow and white head and brown hind neck, winter plumage.
A California brown pelican preening, rubbing the back of its head and neck on the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Adult winter non-breeding plumage showing white hindneck and red gular throat pouch (but transitioning to brown hind neck), Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
A California brown pelican preening, rubbing the back of its head and neck on the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry. Adult winter non-breeding plumage showing white hindneck and red gular throat pouch (but transitioning to brown hind neck).
Ghost Pelican, flying in pre-dawn light, over the ocean, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Ghost Pelican, flying in pre-dawn light, over the ocean.
California Brown pelican performing a head throw, with breeding plumage including distinctive yellow and white head feathers, red gular throat pouch, brown hind neck and greyish body, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown pelican performing a head throw, with breeding plumage including distinctive yellow and white head feathers, red gular throat pouch, brown hind neck and greyish body.
A brown pelican preening, reaching with its beak to the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
A brown pelican preening, reaching with its beak to the uropygial gland (preen gland) near the base of its tail. Preen oil from the uropygial gland is spread by the pelican's beak and back of its head to all other feathers on the pelican, helping to keep them water resistant and dry.
Brown pelican close-up portrait, orange-red bill with pink tissue surrounding eyes, yellow and white head feathers, adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican close-up portrait, orange-red bill with pink tissue surrounding eyes, yellow and white head feathers, adult winter non-breeding plumage.
California brown pelican full body portrait, perched on rock over the ocean in sunlight, adult winter non-breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican full body portrait, perched on rock over the ocean in sunlight, adult winter non-breeding plumage.
Many California Brown Pelicans Flying over the Ocean in a large gathering, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Many California Brown Pelicans Flying over the Ocean in a large gathering.
Two California Brown Pelicans Side by Side Portrait, in overcast light, both transitioning to winter adult breeding plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Two California Brown Pelicans Side by Side Portrait, in overcast light, both transitioning to winter adult breeding plumage.
Brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with distinctive winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers, although this one displays a yellow (rather than the usual red) gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with distinctive winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers, although this one displays a yellow (rather than the usual red) gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican, entangled in monofilament fishing line, showing winter mating plumage colors, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican, entangled in monofilament fishing line, showing winter mating plumage colors.
California Brown Pelicans flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave. Encinitas and Carlsbad coastline in the background, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Brown Pelicans flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave. Encinitas and Carlsbad coastline in the background.
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Pelican flying on a wave, riding the updraft from the wave.
Brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with distinctive winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican preening, cleaning its feathers after foraging on the ocean, with distinctive winter breeding plumage with distinctive dark brown nape, yellow head feathers and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and colorful gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican portrait, displaying winter plumage with distinctive yellow head feathers and colorful gular throat pouch.
Three California brown pelicans mock jousting, displaying vividly-colored throat skin and mating plumage. Two display full breeding plumage with brown hind-neck, the third appears to be sub-adult.  Note also these three display yellow, orange and the more-typical red throat coloration, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Three California brown pelicans mock jousting, displaying vividly-colored throat skin and mating plumage. Two display full breeding plumage with brown hind-neck, the third appears to be sub-adult. Note also these three display yellow, orange and the more-typical red throat coloration.
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, spreading wings wide to slow in anticipation of landing on seacliffs.
Brown pelican.  This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage with brown neck, yellow and white head and bright red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage with brown neck, yellow and white head and bright red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican head throw.  During a bill throw, the pelican arches its neck back, lifting its large bill upward and stretching its throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican head throw. During a bill throw, the pelican arches its neck back, lifting its large bill upward and stretching its throat pouch.
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched.  The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched. The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.
Brown pelican in flight.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
Brown pelican closeup showing characteristic winter mating plumage, including yellow head, dark brown nape of neck and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican closeup showing characteristic winter mating plumage, including yellow head, dark brown nape of neck and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelican in flight, spreading its wings wide to slow before landing on cliffs overlooking the ocean.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight, spreading its wings wide to slow before landing on cliffs overlooking the ocean. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.
Brown pelican in flight, spreading its wings wide to slow before landing on cliffs overlooking the ocean.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight, spreading its wings wide to slow before landing on cliffs overlooking the ocean. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
Brown pelican in flight, skizzing just above a large breaking wave, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelican in flight, skizzing just above a large breaking wave.
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Note the winter mating plumage, olive and red throat, yellow head, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California Brown Pelican head throw, stretching its throat to keep it flexible and healthy. Note the winter mating plumage, olive and red throat, yellow head.
Brown pelican, winter adult breeding plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck plumage of breeding adults. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican, winter adult breeding plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck plumage of breeding adults. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning.
Brown pelican stretches its neck, to keep its throat pouch limber.  The characteristic winter mating plumage of the California race of brown pelican is shown, with deep red gular throat, yellow head and dark brown hindneck, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican stretches its neck, to keep its throat pouch limber. The characteristic winter mating plumage of the California race of brown pelican is shown, with deep red gular throat, yellow head and dark brown hindneck.
Brown pelican, winter plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck colors of breeding adults.  This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican, winter plumage, showing bright red gular pouch and dark brown hindneck colors of breeding adults. This large seabird has a wingspan over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status, due largely to predation in the early 1900s and to decades of poor reproduction caused by DDT poisoning.
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched.  The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  Adult winter non-breeding plumage showing white hindneck and red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican in flight, soaring over the ocean with its huge wings outstretched. The wingspan of the brown pelican can be over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. Adult winter non-breeding plumage showing white hindneck and red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelicans feeding en masse on clouds of krill, Coronado Islands, Mexico, Pelecanus occidentalis, Coronado Islands (Islas Coronado)
Brown pelicans feeding en masse on clouds of krill, Coronado Islands, Mexico.
California brown pelican preening, bill and feather detail, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican preening, bill and feather detail.
California brown pelican, bill detail, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican, bill detail.
California Brown pelican in flight, captured beautifully as it soars over cliffs and the ocean in La Jolla, California, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Brown pelican in flight, captured beautifully as it soars over cliffs and the ocean in La Jolla, California.
Brown pelican in flight.  The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. Long exposure shows motion as a blur. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status.  In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage with dark brown hindneck and bright red gular throat pouch, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. Long exposure shows motion as a blur. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage with dark brown hindneck and bright red gular throat pouch.
Brown pelicans preening.  After wiping its long beak on the uropygial gland near the base of its tail, the pelican spreads the preen oil on feathers about its body, helping to keep them water resistant, an important protection for a bird that spends much of its life diving in the ocean for prey, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelicans preening. After wiping its long beak on the uropygial gland near the base of its tail, the pelican spreads the preen oil on feathers about its body, helping to keep them water resistant, an important protection for a bird that spends much of its life diving in the ocean for prey.
California Brown Pelican Flying in Front of a Big Wave in La Jolla, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, Pelecanus occidentalis
California Brown Pelican Flying in Front of a Big Wave in La Jolla.
California brown pelican portrait with breeding plumage, note the striking red throat, yellow and white head, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla
California brown pelican portrait with breeding plumage, note the striking red throat, yellow and white head.
California Brown pelican in flight, wings spread as it soars over cliffs and the ocean in La Jolla, California, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
California Brown pelican in flight, wings spread as it soars over cliffs and the ocean in La Jolla, California.
Contemplative brown pelican portrait on overcast day, with surf and foam in the background. Breeding plumage with yellow and white head, red throat, brown neck, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Contemplative brown pelican portrait on overcast day, with surf and foam in the background. Breeding plumage with yellow and white head, red throat, brown neck.
Brown pelicans jousting with their long bills, competing for space on a sea cliff over the ocean, with bright red throat, yellow and white head, adult non-breeding winter plumage, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus, La Jolla, California
Brown pelicans jousting with their long bills, competing for space on a sea cliff over the ocean, with bright red throat, yellow and white head, adult non-breeding winter plumage.