Bay Photos by Donna

I mentioned in my last post about a boat tour we took at low tide and being delighted with dolphins.

My primary reason for the boat ride was to hopefully see a large number of American White Pelicans known to use Indian Key as a resting place at low tide.

As we circled the island, we found just two.  Along with a Double-crested Cormorant keeping them company.

American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorant

You can see a ‘horn’ beginning to protrude from the top of these pelicans’ beaks.  When the horn is fully grown, it’s a sign to each other they are ready to breed.

American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorant

American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants are an interesting mix often found together.  And here I found proof!  Cormorants even nest individually or in groups within pelican colonies. 

No doubt, they must feel safe with these enormous white birds.

And although there were only two pelicans, I was happy with seeing them.  It was later, inland, that I would see many more to my delight and of which I’ve already shared with you!