1. Food: Some pelican species were hunted for their meat, eggs, and feathers. Historically, pelicans were considered a source of food for indigenous peoples in certain regions.
2. Traditional Use: In some cultures, pelican feathers were used for adornments, ceremonial purposes, or rituals.
3. Guano Harvesting: In the past, guano (bird droppings) was prized as a valuable fertilizer. Some seabird colonies, including pelican colonies, were exploited for guano collection, which could sometimes result in the disturbance or destruction of nesting sites and impact pelican populations.
4. Game Hunting: In some areas, pelicans were hunted as game birds for sport.
5. Predator Control: In certain cases, pelicans may have been hunted due to perceptions of them being competitors for fish with local fisheries.
It's important to note that due to conservation efforts, international treaties, and increased awareness of the ecological roles and vulnerability of many bird species, including pelicans, hunting and harvesting practices that could threaten pelican populations have become largely restricted or banned. If you're interested in current conservation efforts and regulations related to specific pelican species, it's best to refer to local wildlife management agencies or conservation organizations for up-to-date information.