What Is the State Bird of Louisiana? The Brown Pelican

The state bird of Louisiana is the brown pelican (Pelicanus occidentalis), a coastal seabird known for its distinctive diving behavior and prominent throat pouch. Officially designated in 1966, the brown pelican symbolizes resilience and ecological recovery, making it a fitting emblem for Louisiana’s rich wetland ecosystems. As one of the most recognizable birds along the Gulf Coast, the brown pelican has become deeply embedded in both the natural and cultural identity of the state. This article explores the history, biology, symbolism, and conservation journey of Louisiana’s state bird, offering insights for birdwatchers, educators, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Historical Background: How the Brown Pelican Became Louisiana’s State Bird

Louisiana adopted the brown pelican as its official state bird on July 27, 1966, replacing the eastern brown thrasher, which had held the title briefly from 1927 to 1958. The change reflected growing public sentiment and ecological awareness. Despite never being formally removed by law, the thrasher faded from recognition due to lack of popular support. In contrast, the brown pelican had already appeared on Louisiana’s state seal since 1812 and was featured on license plates, currency, and official documents long before its formal designation.

The decision to make the brown pelican the official bird was driven by its symbolic connection to perseverance. Once nearly eradicated from the region due to pesticide use—particularly DDT—the species made a dramatic comeback thanks to conservation efforts in the late 20th century. Its resurgence mirrored broader environmental movements and solidified its status as a living emblem of ecological hope.

Biological Profile of the Brown Pelican

The brown pelican is a medium-sized pelican species, smaller than its close relative, the American white pelican. Adults typically measure 40–50 inches (100–130 cm) in length with a wingspan reaching up to 7 feet (2.1 meters). They weigh between 6 and 8 pounds (2.7–3.6 kg). Unlike other pelicans that feed by scooping fish while swimming, the brown pelican is famous for its plunge-diving technique: it spots prey from heights of 30–60 feet and dives headfirst into the water, using its expandable throat pouch like a net to capture fish.

This unique feeding behavior requires specialized adaptations. Air sacs beneath the skin cushion the impact of the dive, and strong neck muscles control the descent. After surfacing, the pelican drains excess water before swallowing its catch. Their diet consists mainly of small schooling fish such as menhaden, anchovies, and mullet—species abundant in Louisiana’s estuaries and coastal waters.

Brown pelicans breed in colonies, often on isolated barrier islands or mangrove keys. Nesting season in Louisiana runs from March through October, depending on location and food availability. Both parents share incubation duties, which last about 28–30 days. Chicks fledge at around 9–10 weeks but may remain dependent on adults for several more weeks.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance in Louisiana

The brown pelican holds deep symbolic meaning in Louisiana, representing sacrifice, nurturing, and survival. A longstanding Christian allegory depicts the pelican piercing its own breast to feed its young with its blood—a metaphor for self-sacrifice and redemption. Though biologically inaccurate, this imagery has endured in religious art and heraldry, influencing the bird’s adoption as a state symbol.

In Louisiana, the pelican appears prominently on the state flag, seal, and motto: “Union, Justice, Confidence.” The image shows a mother pelican vulning herself (wounding her chest) to nourish three chicks, reinforcing themes of maternal care and civic duty. Even before statehood, French and Spanish colonial administrators used variations of the pelican motif, linking it to divine providence and protection.

Beyond government symbolism, the brown pelican features in local folklore, music, and tourism branding. It's affectionately nicknamed “The Pelican State,” a moniker embraced by schools, sports teams, and businesses across Louisiana. For many residents, seeing a flock of pelicans flying in formation over marshlands evokes pride and a sense of regional identity.

Conservation History and Recovery Efforts

Despite its iconic status, the brown pelican faced near extinction in Louisiana during the mid-20th century. By the 1950s, widespread use of the pesticide DDT caused eggshell thinning, leading to reproductive failure. By 1963, no brown pelicans were nesting in Louisiana—an alarming collapse given their historical abundance.

A landmark reintroduction program launched in 1968 by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries changed the trajectory. Over six years, nearly 1,300 young pelicans were transplanted from Florida to Queen Bess Island and other protected sites. The effort succeeded beyond expectations: by 1971, nesting pairs returned to the island, and populations steadily increased.

The federal ban on DDT in 1972 further aided recovery. In 2009, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the brown pelican from the Endangered Species List, citing successful population rebounds across its range. However, new threats have emerged, including habitat loss, oil spills (notably the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster), and climate change-induced sea level rise—all of which continue to challenge long-term stability.

Where to See the Brown Pelican in Louisiana

For birdwatchers and nature lovers, spotting the state bird is relatively easy along Louisiana’s 7,700 miles of coastline and wetlands. Some of the best locations include:

• Queen Bess Island Wildlife Refuge – A critical nesting site restored after the Deepwater Horizon spill; accessible by kayak or guided tour.
• Caminada Bay Near Grand Isle – Offers excellent views of feeding flocks, especially during spring and summer.
• Barataria Preserve (Jean Lafitte National Historical Park) – Boardwalk trails provide access to marsh habitats where pelicans soar overhead.
• Chandeleur Islands – Remote barrier islands managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; ideal for experienced ecotourists.

The best times to observe brown pelicans are early morning and late afternoon when they are actively feeding. Look for their characteristic silhouette gliding just above the waterline or hovering before a dramatic dive. During breeding season, visitors might witness courtship displays involving head bobbing, pouch inflation, and synchronized walking.

Feature	Brown Pelican	American White Pelican
Size	40–50 in (100–130 cm)	50–70 in (127–178 cm)
Wingspan	Up to 7 ft (2.1 m)	Up to 9 ft (2.7 m)
Feeding Method	Plunge-dives from air	Swims and scoops in groups
Habitat in LA	Coastal shores, bays, marshes	Inland lakes, reservoirs
Nesting Season	March–October	February–July

Threats and Ongoing Protection Measures

While the brown pelican has recovered from near-local extinction, ongoing threats require sustained conservation attention. Coastal erosion in Louisiana claims approximately one football field of land every 100 minutes, directly reducing available nesting habitat. Rising sea levels compound this issue, submerging low-lying islands crucial for breeding colonies.

The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill contaminated key pelican habitats and led to direct mortality through oil ingestion and feather fouling. Although extensive cleanup and rehabilitation efforts followed, residual impacts persist. Additionally, entanglement in fishing gear, plastic pollution, and disturbance from recreational boating pose daily risks.

To address these challenges, agencies like the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries collaborate with NGOs such as Audubon Louisiana and the Nature Conservancy. Projects include island restoration, predator control, monitoring programs, and public education campaigns. Queen Bess Island underwent a $17 million restoration in 2019, expanding nesting area and improving resilience against storms.

Tips for Observing and Photographing Brown Pelicans

Whether you're a novice birder or seasoned photographer, here are practical tips for responsibly enjoying Louisiana’s state bird:

1. Maintain Distance: Use binoculars or telephoto lenses to avoid disturbing nesting or resting birds, especially during breeding season.
2. Visit Protected Areas: Stick to designated observation points in wildlife refuges to minimize habitat disruption.
3. Time Your Visit: Early mornings offer optimal lighting and higher chances of seeing feeding dives.
4. Respect Closures: Many nesting islands are closed to the public seasonally; check current regulations via the LDWF website.
5. Report Injured Birds: Contact licensed wildlife rehabilitators if you encounter oiled, tangled, or grounded pelicans.

Common Misconceptions About the Brown Pelican

Several myths surround Louisiana’s state bird. One common misconception is that all pelicans are large and white—many people confuse the brown pelican with the American white pelican, which inhabits inland areas and does not dive for food. Another myth is that pelicans store fish in their pouches for long periods; in reality, they swallow prey quickly after draining water.

Some believe the pelican’s self-wounding behavior is real. While powerful symbolically, this act does not occur in nature. Instead, parent pelicans regurgitate partially digested fish to feed their young—a normal avian practice shared by many seabirds.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Louisiana officially adopt the brown pelican as its state bird?

Louisiana officially designated the brown pelican as its state bird on July 27, 1966.

Why is the brown pelican important to Louisiana’s culture?

The brown pelican symbolizes sacrifice, resilience, and environmental recovery. It appears on the state flag, seal, and numerous public emblems, reflecting deep cultural roots.

Can you see brown pelicans year-round in Louisiana?

Yes, brown pelicans are resident birds in southern Louisiana, though some northern parts may see fewer individuals in winter.

What should I do if I find an injured brown pelican?

Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or report it to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries immediately.

Are brown pelicans still endangered?

No, the brown pelican was delisted from the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 2009, though localized threats remain.