Split some time ago from Brown Pelican, this very large species is common in the Humboldt Current, but is listed as Near-threatened probably
due to increasing "El Nino" events in the region. Its full range is from Northern Peru to Central Chile, with some dispersal south from breeding colonies, which vary in size from tens to
thousands. Exclusively marine, it is known (as is Brown Pelican) for its unique twisting "plunge-diving" fishing technique. Birds will forage up to 60Km offshore, but flocks are often found
in harbours where fishing vessels attract them.
Taken Chile March 2015
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