Brown pelicans have thick skin to help them withstand the harsh environmental conditions of the ocean, including high sunlight and saltwater spray. Their skin also acts as a barrier against predators and prevents them from losing too much body heat in cold water.
Waterproof Feathers
The feathers of the brown pelican are waterproof, which helps them to stay afloat in the water and keeps them dry. They have two layers of feathers, with the outer layer being dense and water-resistant, and the inner layer being soft and downy for insulation.
Large Wingspan
Brown pelicans have a large wingspan, with adults reaching an average wingspan of 1.8 to 2.7 meters (6 to 9 feet). This allows them to soar over large distances, cover wide areas during foraging, and catch enough prey to support their large body mass.
Specialized Beak and Gular Pouch
Brown pelicans have a long, pointed beak equipped with a large, expandable pouch underneath called a gular pouch. This unique adaptation helps them catch and store their prey. They can scoop up water, collect fish, and filter small fish and invertebrates through their pouch before swallowing them.
Strong Flight Muscles
Brown pelicans have powerful flight muscles, allowing them to take off and fly with relative ease despite their large size. They can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour (30 miles per hour).
Thermoregulation Mechanisms
Brown pelicans have several thermoregulation mechanisms to maintain their body temperature. They can pant, spread their wings, and expose unfeathered areas of their skin to release excess body heat. Conversely, they can huddle together or fluff their feathers to conserve heat when necessary.
Behavioral Adaptations
Brown pelicans also exhibit behavioral adaptations to cope with climate challenges. For instance, they may engage in communal roosting, where they huddle together in large numbers to stay warm. They also rely on specific foraging techniques, such as plunge-diving, to catch prey and reduce energy expenditure.