See our Guide to Photographing Pelicans in La Jolla.
This brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is soaring over the ocean, riding the morning updrafts along the cliffs of La Jolla, California.
Brown pelican in flight. The wingspan of the brown pelican is over 7 feet wide. The California race of the brown pelican holds endangered species status. In winter months, breeding adults assume a dramatic plumage.
Image ID: 15371
Species: Brown Pelican, Pelecanus occidentalis, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus
Location: La Jolla, California, USA
