Few birds are as eye-catching & captivating as the Dalmatian Pelicans of Lake Kerkini. These majestic birds inhabit the lake in northern Greece, & are a natural spectacle for nature lovers. For many years, the beautiful Dalmatian Pelican has been a source of curiosity & awe – their unique characteristics & appearance make them a sight to behold!
In this article, we’ll be exploring the intricate details & fascinating evolution of this pelican species, & discovering why the unique Dalmatian Pelicans of Lake Kerkini are so beloved.
An introduction to the Dalmatian Pelicans
The Dalmatian Pelican is a giant pelican found in parts of Europe, Asia, & Africa. This majestic bird is a master of aerial acrobatics & is characterized by its white, pale grey, & black feathers. The Dalmatian Pelican is a magnificent creature with a wingspan stretching up to eleven feet & an impressive two-meter height.
The Dalmatian Pelican is an expert fisherman, capable of scooping up large amounts of fish in its distensible pouch. It feeds on fish, amphibians, small reptiles, & crustaceans, & can be found near large bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, & reservoirs.
The Dalmatian Pelican is a social bird, often travelling in flocks of twenty or more. The Dalmatian Pelican is a fantastic creature & a must-capture for any bird photographer.
The visual appearance of the Dalmatian Pelican
The Dalmatian Pelican is undoubtedly an impressive species. With its enormous wingspan reaching up to 3.5 metres across, it stands out from other pelicans in its size & appearance. The bird has a unique white & pale grey plumage, accented by the black tips of its wings; its large wings enable it to soar through the air with grace & travel long distances with a single flight.
What is the diet of the Dalmatian Pelican?
Dalmatian pelicans primarily consume fish but will also feed on amphibians, reptiles, & aquatic crustaceans.
Threats to the Dalmatian Pelican
The Dalmatian Pelican is an endangered species whose population is threatened by various human activities. These activities include hunting, habitat loss, & pollution. Hunting is a significant threat, as hunters prize the pelicans due to their large size & beautiful plumage.
Additionally, the Dalmatian Pelican’s natural habitats are often destroyed to make way for agriculture, industry, & other human activities. Pollution, both from land & water, has also been known to severely impact the species, causing death & impairing the pelican’s ability to find enough food to survive.
These threats are compounded by climate change, affecting the species’ habitats & dispersal patterns.
Images of the Dalmatian Pelicans of Lake Kerkini
Visiting Lake Kerkini in the winter months
Visiting Lake Kerkini in the winter months is an unforgettable experience! Located in northern Greece, Lake Kerkini is a fantastic lake surrounded by mountains & forests.
In the winter, many birds flock to the lake, mostly Dalmatian Pelicans. The lake is a Ramsar site, meaning it is a critical habitat for birds, fish & other animals.
With its stunning natural beauty & abundance of wildlife, Lake Kerkini is a must-see destination in the winter months!
What is a Ramsar site?
A Ramsar site, such as Kerkini Lake National Park, is a wetland site designated internationally crucial under the Ramsar Convention. It is a global conservation treaty signed by over 170 countries in 1971 which aims to protect wetland habitats & their associated biodiversity. These sites are critical as they are home to various species, including migratory birds. Ramsar sites, ranging from large coastal estuaries to small mountain ponds, can be found worldwide. Each country that has signed the Ramsar Convention is responsible for the conservation & wise use of its Ramsar sites & their associated habitats.
Which Photography Holidays Does NaturesLens Schedule for Photographing the Pelicans of Lake Kerkini?
NaturesLens offers a range of pelican photography holidays designed to allow photographers of all levels to capture the character of these characteristic birds. These trips generally are conducted in January & February when the pelicans are most active.
Our photography holidays allow photographers to capture stunning images of the Pelicans of Lake Kerkini as they interact with each other, & soar in the air. During some of our trips, photographers will also have the opportunity to photograph a wide array of other wildlife, including flamingoes, cormorants, & more.
At NaturesLens, we aim to provide photographers with an unforgettable experience that will leave them with beautiful, memorable images. Our trips are led by experienced wildlife photographers who are passionate about wildlife photography & are dedicated to helping photographers capture the best images possible.