Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
Reproduction
American white pelicans are monogamist birds that live in colonies. Soon after these birds arrive at the colony, courtship and pairing occurs. A female attracts a number of males by using several ritualized postures including pointing, gaping, and thrusting. The two then select nest sites adjacent to other pairs at the same stage of the breeding cycle. Nests are usually located on the ground in open, bare soil, and are composed of dirt and other rubbish.
Each female lays between 1-4 chalky colored eggs. The eggs are incubated either on top or beneath the birds' webbed feet for about 30 days, and both parents share this responsibility. They can rear more than one chick per brood, although most do not. Often times, a female will lay more than one egg, but only one of the chicks will be raised. Chicks are born naked and flesh colored, but by the tenth day are covered with thick white down. They remain in the nest for 2-3 weeks, and then gather in groups called creches or pods. The young grow rapidly on frequent, large feeds, and will usually achieve flight after 10-12 weeks.
Now that you know more about how this pelican reproduces, check out its interactions with other species and other pelicans.