The Dalmatian pelican, Pelecanus crispus Bruch 1832, a recently world-endangered bird species

Abstract

The world population of Dalmatian pelicans Pelicanus crispus, the largest pelican species of the genus Pelicanus, has decreased drastically since the last century. Its breeding range has diminished in relationship to agricultural and industrial development and draining of wetlands, and is now limited to the eastern part of the Old World. The present status of P. crispus is reviewed, and the number of breeding pairs in the world is estimated to be between 700–1100 in 16–24 different breeding sites. Migration and wintering are poorly known. Data on the food (strictly fish), the impact of P. crispus on fisheries and a peculiar feeding behaviour of Dalmatian pelicans is distinct association with the great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo are discussed. New contributions on reproduction and predation are presented, and suggestions are made for conservation, monitoring and management.