New Pelican arrival at Birdland!
New Pelican Arrival to Boost Birdland’s International Breeding Programme
A female pink-backed pelican from Germany is settling into her new home at Birdland as part of an international breeding programme for the species.
The bird, which was born at Hagenbeck Zoo in Germany, is joining the Bourton-on-the-Water wildlife collection as part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria’s (EAZA) Ex-situ Programme (EEP), aimed at ensuring the genetic diversity and sustainability of pelican populations across Europe.
The EEP is a comprehensive population management initiative that coordinates breeding efforts among European zoological institutions.
By facilitating the exchange and breeding of animals like pelicans, the programme maintains healthy, genetically diverse populations that serve as a safeguard against extinction.
Birdland’s Head Keeper, Alistair Keen, who actively participates in the EEP’s steering committee, emphasised the significance of this addition: “Integrating this female into our existing group is an important part of our commitment to pelican conservation and the broader objectives of the EEP.”
Following a mandatory isolation period in compliance with Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) regulations, the new pelican was introduced to Birdland’s resident group last week and is settling in well.
The colony now consists of three males and two females, setting the stage for future breeding opportunities.
Although the newly arrived female has not yet reached reproductive maturity, it is hoped she will boost the genetic diversity and social dynamics of the group as she matures.
Pink-backed pelicans are found in Africa, southern Arabia and India. They get their name from the fact that some individuals have a pinkish colouring to the feathers on their backs.
The birds have a wingspan of close to two-metres and their beaks can be nearly 40 centimetres long.
Visitors to Birdland can see the pelican group during daily feeding sessions at Pelican Creek, gaining insight into the behaviours and characteristics of these remarkable birds.
With its combination of woodland, riverside and gardens, Birdland features more than 500 birds, ranging from the UK’s only colony of king penguins and parrots to cassowaries and cranes in a mix of free-flying and aviary displays.
Birdland is open daily from 10am, see if you can spot the new arrival on your next visit!
