Image via Macaulay Library
Pink-backed Pelican
- Scientific name
- Pelecanus rufescens
- Family
- Pelecanidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Aquatic lake
- Wing shape
- Broad
- Tail shape
- Rounded
Where it came from
The pink-backed pelican, Pelecanus rufescens, is a species native to Africa, southern Arabia, and Madagascar. It thrives in various freshwater environments such as swamps and shallow lakes, where it builds its nests in trees, mangroves, or among reeds. The species is recognized by its broad wing shape, which facilitates efficient soaring, and its distinctive rounded tail. These biological adaptations allow the bird to maneuver effectively within its wetland habitats.
The species was first formally described by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1789. The nomenclature reflects its specific plumage characteristics, particularly the pinkish hue often observed on the back and underwings of adult birds during the breeding season. Within the broader context of ornithological classification, it is considered a medium-sized pelican, exhibiting a social structure that often involves communal nesting and cooperative foraging behaviors, which have been subjects of interest for naturalists documenting African avian biodiversity.
Generated by Pi, the collecto.rs collecting companion
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Pink-backed Pelican
Pink-backed Pelican is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Pink-backed Pelican on collecto.rs?
Pink-backed Pelican doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Pink-backed Pelican?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Pink-backed Pelican catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Pink-backed Pelican is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
