Maryland Zoo Welcomes Pink-Backed Pelicans
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The Maryland Zoo is welcoming some new members to its family with the arrival of a group of pink-backed pelicans.
"Plato, Penelope and Pandora were hatched at Disney's Animal Kingdom and are seven-months-old," said Jen Kottyan, avian collection and conservation manager. "We are really thrilled to welcome them to Penguin Coast - they will make a colorful addition to the exhibit."
The new denizens made their debut at the zoo's Penguin Coast Thursday morning.
Pink-backed pelicans, which are native to Central and South Africa, are one of the smaller of the eight pelican species, according to a news release.
Zoo official say pelicans are the heaviest of flying birds, and although pink-backed pelicans are one of the smallest pelican species, they can weigh up to 15 pounds and boast an eight-foot wingspan.
Other than enormous bills and webbed feet, the birds are recognizable by their plumage, which is white, grey and pink with dark grey wing tips.
