Based on 20,640 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, American White Pelican is most often recorded in January; in California it behaves like a year-round resident. It ranks #51 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
American White Pelican in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in California in January
Red-tailed Hawk
White-crowned Sparrow
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Anna's Hummingbird
American Coot
Black Phoebe
Great Egret
Great Blue Heron
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does American White Pelican appear in California?
Mainly December–November, with the most records in January.
How common is American White Pelican in California?
It ranks #51 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in California (20,640 records in our sample).