Question: How do Pelicans keep their feathers healthy and waterproof? Answer: By cleaning and distributing oil from their uropygial gland to their feathers in a behavior known as preening. The uropygial gland is located on their dorsum (back) above the tail; pelicans contort their necks as they reach for the gland with their beaks; the oil is then transferred from the gland to the beak and subsequently distributed to all the feathers via a relentless ritual of rubbing, biting, and stroking their feathers. The oil maintains the health and water resistance of the feathers.
Roosting Sandhill Cranes and Snow Geese begin their day at sunrise as they navigate to their daily feeding grounds, Bosque del Apache, New Mexico.
Dinosaur-like, a restful mature Pelican has the demeanor of a wise old man. This beautiful creature allowed me to photograph him at fairly close range; he was trusting and remained calm but I was respectful and quickly retreated after capturing a portrait image.
