Spot-billed Pelican
The spot-billed pelican is a large waterbird of peninsular India and Sri Lanka, distinguished by the distinctive blue spots on its pink-orange bill pouch. One of the smaller pelican species, it nests colonially in trees near wetlands and lakes, often alongside cormorants, herons, and painted storks. While its population in India is considered relatively stable, it faces ongoing threats from wetland drainage and human disturbance to nesting colonies.
Average Length
125-132 cm
Average Weight
4.1-6 kg
Lifespan
15-25 years
Top Speed
55 km/h
WildAtlas insight
Low elusiveness
This species is generally easier to observe in the wild, based on its typical traits and behavior.
Why this grade?
These are some of the biological and behavioral factors, among others, that WildAtlas considers when deriving this species level grade.
- Animal group
- Bird
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Social behavior
- Flock
This proprietary WildAtlas grade describes the animal in general and stays the same across parks. It is separate from park level insights, which depend on local conditions and data.
Quick Facts
The spot-billed pelican is one of the few pelican species that nests in trees.
It is named for the distinctive blue spots on its orange-pink bill.
Keoladeo National Park and Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary support major breeding colonies.
Habitat & Range
Habitats
Regions
Behavior & Reproduction
Activity Pattern
Diurnal
Social Structure
Flock
Gestation Period
30 days incubation
Litter Size
3
Predators
Large Eagles, Humans
Found in Parks
Where should you look for spot-billed pelican? Explore each park's biome, habitat, and local conditions. Population, density, and sighting trends will shape future park specific insights.
