American White Pelican

Although pelicans are awkward looking birds, they are very graceful in flight. When flying, they flap their wings only 1.3 times per second while a ruby-throated hummingbird beats its wings 50 to 70 times per second.

The white pelican does not dive for its food. Instead it dips its bill under water to gather fish. Several birds may gather in a circle to herd fish together.