Brown Pelicans: Coastal Companions of New Smyrna Beach
Graceful diving experts
Field Note Submitted by:
The end of another splendid day on the water at Ponce Inlet! As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we spotted a brown pelican perched on the pilings, clearly waiting for us fishermen to come in with our bounty.
There's something inherently charming about these large, brown waterbirds with their goofy looks and oversized pouches. It’s like nature's version of a spectator sport—here they are, lounging around, keeping an eye on our catches, as if to say, “Is that really the best you can do?”
Brown pelicans in Northeast Florida are an iconic part of the coastal scene. Found year-round, these quirky birds have made their home in areas like New Smyrna Beach, and it’s hard to imagine the coastline without them.
Here’s a few fun facts that might make you chuckle while you admire them:
Fish Enthusiasts: These pelicans are professional fish catchers. They use that large pouch to scoop up fish and occasionally crustaceans. But let’s be honest, it’s the fish that usually gets the spotlight in their meals.
Dramatic Dives: Watching a brown pelican dive from the sky is like seeing a scene from an action movie—purely dramatic. They can plunge down from up to 60 feet to catch their prey. You’d think they were auditioning for “America’s Got Talent.”
Nesting Behavior: Brown pelicans are colonial nesters. That’s right, they don’t mind a bit of company while raising their young. They gather in large groups to nest, making it quite the social event for these birds.
Recovery Story: It’s heartwarming to note that these once-endangered birds made a comeback, removed from the endangered list in 2009 thanks to conservation efforts. Their resilience reminds us of the importance of protecting our wildlife.
Next time you’re at Ponce Inlet or New Smyrna Beach, keep your eyes peeled for these avian comedians—they're always ready for an audience!
