Pink-backed Pelican

The Pink-backed Pelican is a modestly sized member of the pelican family found across sub-Saharan Africa and parts of southwestern Arabia. It is generally less conspicuous than larger pelican species, with duller plumage overall.

Appearance

Adults are greyish-white with a subtle pinkish tinge visible on the back at close range, a shaggy crest on the nape, and a yellowish-grey bill and pouch that can appear more colorful during the breeding season.

Key field marks

• Smaller and greyer overall than the Great White Pelican
• Subtle pink tinge on the back, often hard to see except at close range
• Shaggy crest on the nape
• Yellowish-grey bill and pouch, less brightly colored than other pelican species

Similar species

Compared to the larger, whiter Great White Pelican, the Pink-backed Pelican looks smaller, greyer, and duller overall, with a less massive bill and a shaggier crest.

Habitat and range

Pink-backed Pelicans inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, swamps, and coastal lagoons across sub-Saharan Africa, with a small population also found in southwestern Arabia. The species is largely resident, though local movements occur in response to changing water levels.

They often roost and breed in trees near water, unlike some other pelican species that nest primarily on the ground.

Behavior

Pink-backed Pelicans forage individually or in small groups, swimming and scooping fish into their pouches; they are generally less prone to the large coordinated group-fishing behavior seen in Great White Pelicans.

Voice

Adults are largely silent, with occasional low grunts near breeding colonies.

Nesting and breeding

They typically nest in trees near water, building stick platform nests, often in mixed colonies with herons, storks, or cormorants. Usually two eggs are laid, and breeding can occur at various times of year depending on local water conditions.