Pelicans on the Central Coast: Big Beaks, Big Personalities
Pelicans are one of the most familiar and well-loved birds on the Central Coast. With their huge beaks, big wings, and laid-back vibe, they’re a common sight around our lakes, rivers, and beaches. Whether they’re gliding across the water or chilling on a jetty, pelicans always draw attention – and it’s easy to see why.
These big birds have loads of personality, and they’re a true part of life by the water here on the Coast.
What is a pelican?
The type we see around here is the Australian Pelican. It’s a massive water bird with a white body, black wingtips, short legs, and a huge pinkish beak – the longest beak of any bird in the world!
Their beak can grow over 40 cm long, and the stretchy pouch underneath is used to scoop up fish and drain out water before they swallow their catch. Watching a pelican feed is like watching a pro at work – it’s all done with that giant beak and a bit of patience.
Where can you see them?
Pelicans are found all over the Central Coast, especially in spots with calm water and plenty of fish. Some of the best places to see them include:
The Entrance – one of the most famous spots, at the Pelican platform, Pelican Time is run every weekend and every day through school holidays.
Tuggerah Lake – around Long Jetty, Killarney Vale, and Chittaway Bay, Toukley, Budgewoi & Tuggerawong.
Brisbane Water – Woy Woy, Patonga, Gosford, Davistown, and Koolewong are great spots.
Avoca Lagoon and Terrigal Haven – calm waters they love to hang out in.
They’re often seen gliding low over the water, bobbing in groups, or perched on poles, jetties, and boats. And when they fly overhead – wings outstretched and graceful as anything – it’s a sight to remember.
What do they eat?
Pelicans mostly eat fish, but they’re not fussy – they’ll also eat yabbies, small turtles, and even the odd bird chick if they’re really hungry (nature can be rough!). They hunt by scooping fish up in their beak pouch and tipping their head forward whilst flattening their pouch to their chest to drain out the water.
They sometimes work as a team, herding fish into shallow water to make them easier to catch.
Pelican behaviour and nesting
Pelicans are social birds and love hanging out in groups. You’ll often see them resting together or preening their feathers. They need to keep those feathers waterproof and in good shape for flying and floating.
They breed in large colonies, usually on islands or in remote wetland areas. Nests are made from sticks and grasses on the ground. When food is plentiful, they breed more often – so good fish numbers help pelican families grow.
Helping pelicans stay safe
Pelicans are tough, but they still need our help. Here’s what we can do:
Don’t feed them bait, chips, bread or fish scraps – it teaches them to rely on people and can lead to injuries and cause illness.
Pick up fishing line and rubbish – these can tangle around their feet & body - if you hook one whilst fishing call Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast
Give them space – especially if they’re nesting or resting.
Supporting Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast who care for seabirds and protect breeding areas
Pelicans are a big, bold part of Central Coast life. Next time you see one gliding across the lake or perched like a statue on a pole, take a moment to appreciate this Aussie icon – just doing its thing by the water.