Australian Pelican - Pelecanus conspicillatus

The Australian Pelican is found throughout Australia, New Guinea and eastern Indonesia, with occasional reports in New Zealand and western Pacific islands.

After monsoonal rains flood salt lakes in Australia’s arid interior, pelicans sometimes flock there in their thousands to breed. When it dries out again, they head for more permanent wetlands or the coast. However, recent studies indicate that there may be less movement between the coast and inland wetlands than previously thought.

Pelicans are highly mobile, searching out suitable areas of water and adequate food. They can remain aloft for 24 hours, covering hundreds of kilometres, using thermals to soar to heights of up to 3,000 m.