The Belize Zoo
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Brown Pelicans

Brown Pelicans

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Brown Pelican

Description

The Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is a distinctive coastal bird with a long bill, large throat pouch, and brownish plumage. Commonly found along shores and waterways in Belize.

Interesting Facts

  • Scientific Name: Pelecanus occidentalis
  • Habitat: Thrives along the shores and waterways of Belize, adapting to coastal environments.
  • Diet: Skilled plunge-divers, catching fish; contribute to marine ecosystem health.
  • Behavior: Recognized for their spectacular plunge-diving behavior; their presence serves as an indicator of coastal environment health in Belize.

The Belize Zoo Trivia

  • The Belize Zoo has 4 pelican residents who are unfit to go back into the wild. They are Pedro, Peli, Wingy, and Zippy. These pelicans have missing parts of their wings and beaks as a result of injuries. Some were caused by people who believed the pelicans were stealing their fish.

Want to Adopt Me?

Learn more about adopting an animal here: How To Adopt An Animal

Opens Sun 8:30 AM
Local time · America/Belize

Sunday08:30 – 17:00
Monday08:30 – 17:00
Tuesday08:30 – 17:00
Wednesday08:30 – 17:00
Thursday08:30 – 17:00
Friday08:30 – 17:00
Saturday08:30 – 17:00
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Made for wandering. Built for Belize.
Updated 10/31/2026 · Online