Pelican Lands in Shelby County: An Extraordinary Sight for Tennessee

A Rare Avian Visitor Spotted in Memphis

In a surprising turn of events, a coastal feathered visitor, a brown pelican, was spotted over the weekend making its unique appearance in the heart of Shelby County, Tennessee. This unusual avian guest, traditionally accustomed to the salt waters of coastal regions, landed unexpected at Shelby Farms Park.

Brown Pelican: A Sight Unseen for 16 Years

Local bird watchers and park officials have expressed their amazement at this rare sighting, confirming that it’s the first brown pelican recorded in the Shelby County area in over 16 years. The last recorded presence of this large seabird in the county was way back in the year 2008. In fact, over the past century, there have been only a few scattered recordings of this species in the entire state of Tennessee.

Not Yet in Full Adult Bloom

According to park officials, this wayward pelican is estimated to be about a year old, indicating that it has not yet reached its full adult plumage. Despite its tender age and unfamiliar surroundings, as of the past Wednesday, the juvenile pelican continues to linger in the area between the point decks on the northern side of the park’s Hyde Lake.

Feathered Foreigner Still Visible at Shelby Farms Park

The park’s seasoned photographer snapped captivating shots of this extraordinary avian traveller. Residents of Memphis, bird enthusiasts and curious onlookers currently have a unique opportunity to witness this rare coastal bird in its adopted habitat at Shelby Farms Park.

The Unusual Journey

Though the exact reason for the pelican’s unexpected arrival in Tennessee remains a mystery, it’s not uncommon for young pelicans, inexperienced in their navigation, to be blown off course. Predominantly coastal birds, pelicans can sometimes be found hundreds of miles inland following major storms that create powerful updrafts.

Recognizing the Brown Pelican

The Brown Pelican is a notable figment of North America’s coastal bird population. Known for their mix of brown and gray plumage, these birds are also curiously recognized by their incredibly long bill paired with a large throat pouch. A peculiar sight to behold, the Brown Pelican is an exquisite testament to the diversity and wonder of the avian world.

A Gift for Birdwatchers

The exceptional presence of this coastal seabird in the landlocked area of Tennessee not only presents an exciting sightseeing opportunity for the general public but is also a gift to bird watchers and wildlife photographers alike. This rare occurrence further highlights the importance of conservation areas like Shelby Farms Park, which provide a safe haven for all too often wayward wildlife.