Pelicans face numerous challenges while searching for food - from changes in their habitats to pressures from human activities. Understanding their feeding behaviour is essential not only for protecting the pelicans themselves, but also for monitoring the condition of the habitats on which they depend.
Among the most fascinating aspects of pelican behaviour is their unique fishing technique. Sometimes they fish individually, moving slowly and carefully through the water, while at other times they act collectively - in tightly formed groups, swimming side by side in a semi-circle to catch fish cooperatively. By gaining a better understanding of where, when, and how pelicans feed, we can identify which wetland habitats are most important for them and how to protect these vital ecosystems.
To address these questions, the Society for the Protection of Prespa from Greece developed “PelicanWatch” - a simple mobile application that enables birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike to participate in real scientific research. Through the app, citizens can record observations of pelican feeding behaviour and help scientists better understand the challenges these birds face.
With just 10 minutes of your time and a pair of binoculars, you can contribute valuable data to a growing database. Each observation helps answer key questions such as:
• Which wetland habitats are most important for pelicans when searching for food?
• How much time do pelicans need to fish before they are full?
• Which fishing method is more successful - individual or cooperative?
• How are wetland habitats changing over time?
The “PelicanWatch” app also allows you to easily record sightings of pelicans that have already been tagged by scientists (by entering the code from the rings placed on their legs), helping to track their movements, survival rates, and the distances they travel.
The success of this project depends on volunteers. With simple steps and minimal equipment, your participation can have a significant impact. Be part of this collective mission!
Download the “PelicanWatch” app right now and help protect pelicans!
The maintenance of this application is supported through the project “PrespaNet III – Biodiversity Conservation in Transboundary Prespa”, implemented by the Macedonian Ecological Society, the Society for the Protection of Prespa (Greece), and the Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania. The project is supported by the Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT), the Aage V. Jensen Foundation, and EuroNatur.
