American White Pelican and Reflection

I came across this juvenile American white pelican early one morning in a ditch close to the Great Salt Lake. I liked the diffused light and the dark background which set off the pelican and its reflection.

American White Pelicans

American White Pelican with Carp

American White Pelican with Carp

Roosting American White Pelicans

Feeding American White Pelican

American White Pelicans

A trio of American white pelicans arrive at their feeding area These large birds nest inland but close to water bodies. They fish in small to moderately sized groups, often diving in unison. Here, I saw them arrive in small numbers to feed on carp trapped by a small check dam. I was captivated by the lighting, synchronous head angles and colors.

American White Pelican Landing

American White Pelican

Sunning American White Pelican

Roosting American White Pelicans

American White Pelican

American White Pelicans

American White Pelican Sunbathing

Pelican with Carp

An American white pelican in the process of digesting a carp. I observed the pelican holding on to the fish for well over an hour, during which it was continuously tilting its head and agitating its pouch. I like the dramatic pose enhanced by morning light.

American White Pelicans Grooming before Roost

American White Pelican

An American white pelican feeds before going to roost on a summer evening in N Utah. The white pelican caught my eye as it swam against a dark part of the reeds. The directional light and dark background made for a pleasing image.