Brown Pelican

(Pelecanus occidentalis)

Where: Sandbridge, VA • Little Island Park Beach

Notes: I have seen distant flocks of these magnificent birds perch along the shoreline before, usually in a large group. They seemed to do this after diving for fish in the surf, perhaps to rest. They are a bit awkward on land since they are designed with a large seven foot wingspan and have feet made for swimming. Pelicans are known to be social birds, they often fish together and they nest in large colonies. On this day, a couple of kids were feeding the Gulls some bread scraps on the beach (this is not recommended). This Pelican flew in to check out the calamity that ensued. Disappointed by the offerings, this bird strolled around for a few minutes and eventually departed. I really like the pose of this shot because of the motion of the bird's foot being kicked out exposing its webbed toes. Though it was mid-day, overcast conditions prevented harsh shadows from being cast which overall gives the image even lighting. The horseshoe crabs add a nice detail to this sandy landscape story.