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Dalmatian Pelican

Pelecanus crispus
Pelecanidae Near threatened

The Dalmatian pelican, also known as the curly-headed pelican, is the largest member of the pelican family and among the heaviest flying birds in the world. With a wingspan typically ranging between 2.7 and 3.2 metres, it ranks among the largest soaring birds. These pelicans are known for their graceful flight and often travel in synchronised flocks. With a range spanning across much of Central Eurasia, from the eastern Mediterranean in the west to the Taiwan Strait in the east, and from the Persian Gulf in the south to Siberia in the north, it is a short-to-medium-distance migrant between breeding and overwintering areas.

Summary from Wikipedia

Hear it on xeno-canto Community recordings — opens xeno-canto →

In Türkiye

Seasonal status
Year-round

Recorded in Türkiye throughout the year.

Most records in January–February.

Where it stands out
ArdahanİzmirAydınManisaEdirne

Provinces where it makes up the largest share of bird records.

Records by month

Adjusted for how many birdwatchers are out each month; the busiest month = 100%.

5,651 records from Türkiye · #157 of 634 species by number of records. Source: GBIF.org (October 2026). All birds of Türkiye

At a glance

Family
Pelecanidae
Group
Pelicans, Herons, and Allies
Conservation status
Near threatened

The Dalmatian pelican is one of the heaviest flying birds and has one of the largest wingspans, reaching about 3.5 m.

Similar birds

All birds

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