Birds flying along rocky cliffs at the ocean

Scientist Decode The Physics Of Wave Surfing Pelicans

Have you ever wondered how pelicans can glide along the top of ocean waves without flapping their wings? UC San Diego researchers have spelled out the math that explains how pelicans can fly for miles along the coast while barely flapping their wings. KPBS environment Reporter Erik Anderson says the information has implications for understanding the warming climate. Read more… Continue reading Scientist Decode The Physics Of Wave Surfing Pelicans

Equipment used for science field work on a green background. Equipment includes an NPS Ranger shirt, hat, sunglasses, boot, binoculars, radio, field guides and knife.

Cabrillo Field Notes – Excuse Me, What Do You Keep in Your Gular Pouch?

Dixon Lanier Merritt wrote a great limerick regarding our fine feathered friend in 1910: “Oh, a wondrous bird is the pelican! His bill holds more than his belican. He can take in his beak Enough food for a week. But I’m darned if I know how the helican.” In this field note we discuss the Brown Pelican, the uses of its gular pouch, its diet, … Continue reading Cabrillo Field Notes – Excuse Me, What Do You Keep in Your Gular Pouch?