In a rare avian sighting, two great white pelicans, also known as “rosy Pelicans”, were spotted at the Nandur Madhmeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Nashik on the morning of March 28.
This is the first recorded sighting of the species at the site since 2005, and the first reported presence in Maharashtra since 2013, when it was last observed in Mumbai. Currently, the two great white pelicans are present at Nandur Madhyameshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, sparking excitement among birdwatchers.
The sighting
On Saturday morning, local guides at the sanctuary spotted two unusual birds circling overhead. Shortly after, the birds descended into newly created water bodies, revealing themselves to be the rare great white pelicans.
‘Zholiwala pelican’
Commonly referred to in Marathi as “pandhra pankoli” or “motha pandhra pelican”, this striking waterbird is easily identified by the pouch beneath its long bill, often earning it the nickname “Zholiwala”. This pouch, known scientifically as a gular pouch, is made of stretchable, featherless skin and hangs like a sling from the lower mandible. It acts like a fishing net, enabling pelicans to scoop up fish — an extraordinary feeding method not seen in other bird groups.
Birds with the longest bills
Pelicans are large aquatic birds known for their long bills — the longest among birds. A male’s bill can reach up to 20 inches. Despite its size, the pouch is not used to store food but to catch it. The pouch is highly elastic due to a network of collagen fibres, lacks feathers, and is rich in blood vessels. These birds have fully webbed four toes, making them excellent swimmers.
Pelican habitats
Pelicans prefer shallow wetlands as their habitat. Though fish form the bulk of their diet, they may occasionally prey on other aquatic organisms. Elegant and majestic, these birds have now made a temporary home in the sanctuary.
