Based on 39,805 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Brown Pelican is most often recorded in September; in California it behaves like a year-round resident. It ranks #27 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Pelecanus occidentalis
Brown 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 September
Red-tailed Hawk
Western Gull
Black Phoebe
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Mallard
Anna's Hummingbird
California Scrub-Jay
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 Brown Pelican appear in California?
Mainly August–July, with the most records in September.
How common is Brown Pelican in California?
It ranks #27 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in California (39,805 records in our sample).