CALIFORNIA BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus), a 51-inch bird of the Pelecanidae

These pelicans are migratory in Oregon, spending the summer and fall along the coast, roosting on sandbars and pilings, and feeding on small fish. The birds winter and breed in southern California and the Baja peninsula from around December to July. In 2008, however, the Pelican population has been large and remained late into December along the Oregon coast. The Brown Pelican is unique among the species of pelicans. It is the only dark pelican, it is found along ocean shores rather than inland lakes, and it plunge dives into the water for its food. Below, left, is a non-breeding adult; second from right, a breeding adult (note the very dark brown back of the neck); and right, a juvenile (note the brown head and white belly).

They posed when they saw the camera.