New Jersey, a state known for its diverse landscapes, also offers a rich array of wildlife. The presence of pelicans often sparks curiosity. This article explores pelicans in the Garden State, detailing their presence, identification, viewing locations, seasonal patterns, and conservation efforts.
Pelican Presence in New Jersey
Pelicans are found in New Jersey, making them a notable part of the state’s bird diversity. While not as common as some other coastal bird species, their regular sightings demonstrate an established presence. Their appearance might seem unexpected, as these large waterbirds are frequently associated with warmer, southern climates. New Jersey’s coastal and inland waterways provide suitable habitats for these birds at various times of the year. Their presence highlights the ecological richness of the state’s aquatic environments.
Identifying New Jersey’s Pelicans
Two pelican species can be observed in New Jersey: the Brown Pelican and the less common American White Pelican. Distinguishing between them involves observing their size, color, and foraging behaviors.
Brown Pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) are smaller, measuring 3.5 to 5 feet long with a 6.5 to 7.5-foot wingspan. They have dark gray bodies, a white neck, and a pale yellow head. They plunge-dive headfirst into the water to scoop up fish.
American White Pelicans (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) are larger, weighing 11 to 20 pounds with a wingspan over 9 feet. These birds are predominantly white, with black flight feathers visible only when their wings are spread. Unlike brown pelicans, they do not plunge-dive; instead, they scoop fish from the water’s surface, often cooperatively herding fish into shallow areas. Breeding adults also develop a distinctive yellow plate or horn on their upper bill.
Where to Spot Pelicans
Coastal areas and large bodies of water, particularly in southern New Jersey, offer the best opportunities to observe pelicans. Cape May County is a birding hotspot where both species have been sighted. Specific locations like the Delaware Bay marshes and areas around Cape May Point State Park are productive for birdwatching.
Island Beach State Park also provides chances to see these birds, especially the Brown Pelican along its ocean-facing beaches. Other sightings include areas around the Navesink River in Monmouth County and the creeks and beaches of Cape May County, such as Norbury Landing and Kimball’s Beach. Their preferred foraging and resting habitats include shallow coastal waters, sandbars, and offshore islets.
Seasonal Patterns and Protection Efforts
Pelican sightings in New Jersey are seasonal, influenced by migratory patterns. Brown Pelicans are most commonly observed from April through January, with peak viewing opportunities between June and October. After breeding, many Atlantic populations disperse northward during summer before returning southward to warmer waters by autumn, often following fish concentrations. American White Pelicans, while less common, are more frequently seen during fall migration and sometimes winter, utilizing both coastal and freshwater habitats.
The recovery of the Brown Pelican is a conservation success, particularly from DDT pesticide contamination in the mid-20th century. This recovery highlights the effectiveness of environmental protection and regulatory actions. Ongoing conservation efforts in New Jersey, supported by organizations like the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey and Save Coastal Wildlife, focus on protecting and restoring habitats for various species, including pelicans. These initiatives help ensure New Jersey’s diverse ecosystems continue to support these birds.