Pelican Feeding Point Kalbarri — Attraction in Kalbarri

Pelicans, with their distinctive appearance and graceful flight, captivate the imagination of both seasoned birdwatchers and casual observers alike. As creatures of coastal habitats and inland waterways, pelicans have carved a niche in the avian world that is both unique and essential. In this review, we explore the charm, behavior, and significance of these majestic aviators.

Appearance and Anatomy:

Pelicans are instantly recognizable by their long bills, expansive wingspan, and pouch-like throat sacs. Their large, sturdy bodies are adapted for long flights and diving into the water in search of prey. One of the most striking features of pelicans is their elongated bills, which they use skillfully to scoop up fish while hunting. Their plumage, varying from white to gray, often contrasts beautifully with their vibrant, webbed feet. From the American White Pelican to the Brown Pelican, each species exhibits subtle differences in coloration and size, adding to the allure of these magnificent birds.

Behavior and Habitat:

Pelicans are predominantly found in coastal regions, estuaries, and along inland waterways. They are highly social birds, often seen congregating in large groups called pods or squadrons. These gatherings serve various purposes, including hunting cooperatively and roosting together for safety. Pelicans are skilled hunters, employing a combination of soaring flights and synchronized dives to catch fish. Their unique hunting technique involves forming a cooperative line, driving fish towards shallow waters where they can easily scoop them up with their bills.

During the breeding season, pelicans display remarkable courtship rituals, which may include synchronized swimming, bill-dipping, and elaborate displays of plumage. Nesting colonies, located on remote islands or coastal cliffs, provide sanctuary for breeding pairs and their offspring. Despite their seemingly clumsy appearance on land, pelicans are adept flyers, effortlessly gliding on thermal updrafts and riding ocean winds with precision and grace.

Ecological Importance:

Pelicans play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats. As top predators in aquatic ecosystems, they help regulate fish populations and control prey species, preventing overpopulation and ecosystem degradation. Additionally, their guano (excrement) contributes to nutrient cycling in coastal environments, enriching soil fertility and supporting plant growth.

Moreover, pelicans serve as indicators of environmental health, reflecting the condition of their habitats and the availability of prey species. Their sensitivity to changes in water quality, habitat loss, and human disturbance underscores the importance of conservation efforts aimed at protecting their natural habitats and preserving biodiversity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, pelicans embody the beauty, resilience, and interconnectedness of the natural world. From their graceful aerial displays to their vital ecological role, these majestic aviators inspire awe and admiration among observers of all ages. As stewards of the environment, we have a responsibility to safeguard the habitats and resources upon which pelicans and countless other species depend. By appreciating and protecting these magnificent birds, we honor not only their legacy but also our shared commitment to the preservation of our planet's precious...

In 1975,  local resident, Cliff Ross began feeding the pelicans in Kalbarri. He lived on Grey Street, across from the foreshore. Once he started the pelicans showed up every day for their feed of fish.

Today, local volunteers feed the pelicans at 8:45am every morning, on the foreshore opposite Murchison Caravan Park.

Pelicans cannot be guaranteed to show every day. The day before only one showed but today nine arrived! Quite a crowd gathered today for the feeding and children were excited when chosen to thrown a fish for the eager birds.

Well done to the volunteers who make this a great experience unique to Kalbarri. They give a very informative and educational talk about the pelicans. Donations are greatly appreciated to help the volunteers with the cost of...

The pelican feeding happens every morning by volunteers. There are benches and a small fence where it happens so it's not too hard to miss. It was informative and quite exciting waiting for them to show up. Apparently, they don't always show up so it was nice having quite a few of them turn up. Everything is done on a volunteer basis including the fish for feeding. They offered the fish to the kids first and offered it to other people afterwards. It was nice watching the fish flying through the air and getting to their target, or not. It was something different to do when there. It is free but they do ask for a gold coin donation afterwards to help keep it going. It was worth the early morning start to see something a...