Fishing Pelican
By Steve Helmer
@srhelmer (7029)
Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
May 16, 2017 12:12pm CST
We had a lot of rain last night and, as a result, most of the trails I normally walk were under water today. I did, however, manage to get in a short walk and came across this pelican as it was fishing on one of the ponds.
I learned something new today too. I was curious about the large bump on its beak (something I've never seen before) and learned they grow that during breeding season then shed it later.
4 people like this
5 responses
@TiarasOceanView (70035)
• United States
16 May 17
Wow a pelican! He is a big guy isn't he.
Wonder what that bump does, attracts mates I guess.
2 people like this
@srhelmer (7029)
• Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
16 May 17
I was trying to find that out. All I can find is mention of the bump (grown by both males and females) during mating season but nothing that really says why they do it. I'm guessing the mate attraction thing makes as much sense as anything.
2 people like this
@TiarasOceanView (70035)
• United States
16 May 17
@srhelmer Yes it must be that I am sure..strange huh lol
@srhelmer (7029)
• Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
16 May 17
They like to hang out here during the warmer months. I mostly see them on our lake but, on occasion, I'll see one swimming in a pond, like this one.
@prashu228 (37526)
• India
16 May 17
I saw them in zoo , like turtles. I don't know about the bump on the beak, quite interesting to know that they are used for mating.. quite surprising..thanks for the information
1 person likes this
@JohnRoberts (109857)
• Los Angeles, California
16 May 17
Excellent shot of that handsome fowl.
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