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One of the world’s heaviest flying bird species, the Dalmatian pelican, has been recorded in eastern Türkiye’s Igdir province, where researchers have recently been tracking seasonal bird movements.
The Dalmatian pelican (Pelecanus crispus), listed as “Near Threatened” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, was observed as part of ongoing field monitoring in the region. The IUCN Red List is a global system that classifies species based on their risk of extinction, helping guide conservation efforts worldwide.
As temperatures begin to rise, migratory bird activity has picked up across eastern Türkiye, prompting researchers to carry out observation studies. During these surveys, groups of Dalmatian pelicans were recorded moving together, offering a rare glimpse of the species in the area.
Known for its impressive physical features, the Dalmatian pelican stands out as one of the heaviest birds capable of sustained flight. With a wingspan exceeding 3 meters (around 10 feet) and a body weight of over 11 kilograms (approximately 24 pounds), it ranks among the largest flying birds in the world.
The species is typically found across a wide geographic range stretching from parts of Europe to Asia and as far as India, although sightings remain relatively uncommon in certain regions.
The pelicans were documented in two important wetland ecosystems: the Karasu Wetland and the Aras Bird Sanctuary. These areas serve as critical stopover and habitat zones for migratory birds, particularly during seasonal transitions.
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