- Shallow coastal waters
- Bays
- Estuaries
- Lagoons
- Mangrove swamps
- Rivers
- Lakes
- Reservoirs
- Marshes
- Swamps
- Even some oceans
They prefer areas with an abundance of fish, which are their primary source of food. Pelicans also require areas with suitable nesting and roosting sites, such as trees, cliffs, or man-made structures.
Some species of pelicans are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, while others are more specialized and restricted to specific environments. For example, the brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is found primarily in coastal areas of the Americas, while the pink-backed pelican (Pelecanus rufescens) is found in freshwater habitats in Africa and Asia.
Here is a more detailed look at the different types of habitats where pelicans can be found:
* Coastal waters: Pelicans are often seen in shallow coastal waters, where they can easily catch fish. These areas provide an abundance of food and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
* Bays and estuaries: Bays and estuaries are also popular habitats for pelicans, as they offer a protected environment with an abundance of fish. These areas are often sheltered from strong winds and waves, making them ideal for nesting and roosting.
* Lagoons: Lagoons are shallow, coastal bodies of water that are often separated from the ocean by a barrier island or reef. Pelicans are attracted to lagoons because they provide a calm, protected environment with an abundance of fish.
* Mangrove swamps: Mangrove swamps are coastal wetlands that are dominated by mangrove trees. Pelicans can be found in mangrove swamps, where they can find shelter from the sun and rain and an abundance of fish.
* Rivers: Pelicans can also be found in rivers, especially those that are wide and slow-moving. Rivers provide an abundance of fish and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
* Lakes: Pelicans are also found in lakes, especially those that are large and shallow. Lakes provide an abundance of fish and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
* Reservoirs: Reservoirs are man-made bodies of water that are often used for irrigation or drinking water. Pelicans can be found in reservoirs, especially those that are large and shallow. Reservoirs provide an abundance of fish and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
* Marshes: Marshes are wetlands that are dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants. Pelicans can be found in marshes, especially those that are near bodies of water. Marshes provide an abundance of fish and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
* Swamps: Swamps are wetlands that are dominated by trees and shrubs. Pelicans can be found in swamps, especially those that are near bodies of water. Swamps provide an abundance of fish and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
In general, pelicans can be found in a variety of habitats, as long as they have access to an abundance of fish and suitable nesting and roosting sites.