8 impressive facts that tell the tale of the brown pelican

Get to know this unique species.

At least 10 huge brown pelicans swarm behind a fishing boat as it enters the marina near Loreto, Mexico’s malecón. These Baja pelicans aren’t taking no for an answer. They want whatever discarded fish they can get.

More pelicans hunch on the rocks, waiting for the next boat. They flap and dive bomb, they reach their beaks into the air and show off their weird gullets. During my four days in Loreto, I visit the malecón pelicans six times. It’s the best pelican viewing ever. It also makes me want to learn more about these huge birds with lots of personality. Discover some brown pelican fun facts in the list below, and learn more about Baja with resources like this.

A colorful sculpture spelling out "Loreto."
Loreto, the place for brown pelican watching! / Photo by Teresa Bergen