Short answer
The average lifespan of a Pelican is around 10 to 25 years.
Life expectancy
The average lifespan of a pelican varies depending on the species. Generally, the larger species tend to have a longer lifespan compared to the smaller ones. The Brown Pelican, which is one of the most widespread species, has an average lifespan of 10 to 25 years in the wild. However, captive individuals have been known to live much longer, with some reaching up to 40 years of age.
On the other hand, the American White Pelican has a longer average lifespan that ranges between 10 and 25 years in the wild as well. Similar to the Brown Pelican, individuals in captivity have been recorded to live beyond 40 years, demonstrating their potential for extended lifespans when provided with proper care and a safe environment.
For the smallest pelican species, such as the Peruvian Pelican, the average lifespan is slightly shorter. These birds have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years in the wild, with some recorded cases of individuals living up to 25 years. Like their larger counterparts, Peruvian Pelicans can also live longer in captivity, reaching ages of around 30 years.
Overall, it is important to note that various factors can influence the life expectancy of pelicans, including predation, habitat quality, and availability of food resources. Additionally, many individual pelicans may not reach their full potential lifespan due to environmental threats such as pollution, habitat destruction, and the impact of human activities.
Some interesting facts about Pelican
- Pelicans are large birds that have a wingspan of up to 10 feet, making them one of the largest flying birds in the world.
- They have a unique bill that can hold around 3 gallons of water. They use this pouch-like bill to catch fish, scooping them up along with water and then draining the water out before swallowing their catch.
- Pelicans are known for their incredible diving skills. They can dive from heights of up to 60 feet into the water to catch fish. This is made possible by their strong neck muscles and air sacs beneath their skin, which act as a cushion to protect them upon impact.
- While most pelicans prefer to live near the coasts and are excellent swimmers, the brown pelican is the only species that is known to actively plunge-dive from the air to catch fish. They spot their prey from the air and then dive headfirst into the water to catch it.
- Pelicans are highly social birds and often nest in large colonies, sometimes consisting of thousands of individuals. They engage in synchronized swimming and fishing, creating an impressive spectacle as they work together to herd schools of fish into shallower waters for easy catch.
Summary
Pelicans have a relatively long lifespan compared to other bird species, typically living for about 15 to 25 years in the wild. However, some individuals have been known to live up to 30 years or more. The factors that influence their lifespan include geographic location, habitat quality, availability of food, and exposure to pollution and human interference. Overall, pelicans are known for their resilience and adaptability, thriving in various environments and displaying remarkable survival instincts. Their long lifespan is a testament to their ability to overcome challenges and establish sustainable populations.
