My subject today is about bird talk: American White Pelicans, my friend Adonis, and his recent first trip back East, and to the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
American White Pelicans on the wing
First, a little bit about Adonis: Adonis works at my local grocery store, and he is a bit of a hero to me. During the pandemic, Adonis worked hard in difficult conditions. We all remember those, right?
Even on the worst of days when it seemed everyone was either fearful or cranky, Adonis was still cheerful, helpful, and kind. As the months stretched into years, Adonis’s great character kept right on shining. I admire that about Adonis. He is, without a doubt, one of the best and friendliest employees at my local grocery store.
Adonis knows I am a bird and nature photographer and asks me about my trips into the field and which birds and animals I am finding. In December of 2019, I gave one of the Peregrine Fund 2020 calendars that had one of my American Kestrel photos featured in it, to him.
A few days ago, while I was in the store checking out, Adonis chatted with me and told me that he had been on his first trip back East to North Carolina. Adonis also said he had been to the Outer Banks and thought that the coast was great. I’ve also been there and could imagine seeing and hearing the Atlantic Ocean as Adonis talked.
American White Pelican on the wing over Farmington Bay WMA
Then, Adonis began to describe some large birds he saw with huge wingspans and very long bills that he saw on the coast. Right away, I knew he was talking about pelicans.
I asked if the pelicans were white or brown, and when Adonis said that they were white, I told him they were American White Pelicans. I also told Adonis that we have American White Pelicans here in Utah and I loved watching the smile broaden on his face!
So, imagine if you will, Adonis and I chatting about the nine-foot wingspan of American White Pelicans, how they used to nest on Gunnison Island in the Great Salt Lake before the lake level dropped so low. From our bird talk, Adonis now knows he can see the large white pelicans he found on the Outer Banks of NC right here at home in northern Utah.
And Adonis, if you and your girlfriend want to see those pelicans, I am extending an invite today. I can show them to you around mid-February when they start migrating back into Utah in large numbers.
Bird talk—it can happen anywhere.
Life is good. Talking about birds with other people? That makes life even better.
Yes, I know, I can’t stop talking about birds. They are my passion and obsession.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American White Pelican photos plus facts and information about this species.
Totally cool! Chatting it up with people you like about the things you love is one of the real pleasures in life. A nine-foot wingspan? I had no idea. Great pics Mia. Thanks.
What a fantastic series of encounters — that I hope will continue with Adonis and his girlfriend joining you out in the field.
The more we talk the more will care!
You are such a wonderful bird ambassador and happiness spreader. Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place.
I especially enjoy the pelicans when they come to Jordanelle in the summer. Always a different look for up here. Thanks for posting
I do hope that Adonis takes you up on your invitation – and expect that he will be blown away.
The “wingspan” photo is especially nice. Love the diagonal composition. I am always amazed at how huge these pelicans really are when you can get near them as they rest on the ground together or preen. -Jeri S.
They are truly beautiful birds especially while flying. I love it when they dive for fish from a great height.