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White birds are often seen as symbols of purity and elegance. Here, we dive into the world of large white birds, detailing their unique characteristics, habitats, and sizes.
10. Great Egret (Ardea alba)
The Great Egret is a majestic bird often found in wetlands across the globe. It is characterized by its long neck and legs, allowing it to wade through shallow waters effortlessly. This bird is primarily white, with a sharp yellow beak and black legs.
- Size: 37-41 inches (94-104 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 52-67 inches (132-170 cm)
- Habitat: Freshwater and saltwater marshes, ponds, and shores
- Diet: Fish, amphibians, invertebrates
9. American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos)
This bird is notable for its large size and distinctive pouch used for catching fish. American White Pelicans are social birds, often seen in flocks.
- Size: 50-70 inches (127-178 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 95-120 inches (240-305 cm)
- Habitat: Lakes, rivers, and marshes
- Diet: Fish, occasionally amphibians and crustaceans
8. Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
Known for their graceful appearance and curved necks, Mute Swans are one of the largest waterfowl. Despite their name, they are not entirely mute but are less vocal than other swan species.
- Size: 55-63 inches (140-160 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 79-94 inches (200-240 cm)
- Habitat: Lakes, rivers, and estuaries
- Diet: Aquatic vegetation, small fish, and insects
7. Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)
The Trumpeter Swan is the largest native North American bird. It has a completely white plumage and a distinctive trumpet-like call.
- Size: 54-62 inches (137-157 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 79-98 inches (200-250 cm)
- Habitat: Wetlands, large lakes, and rivers
- Diet: Aquatic plants, grains, and invertebrates
6. Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
A large swan species, the Whooper Swan is known for its loud, whooping calls. It is found in the Northern Hemisphere, with significant populations in Eurasia.
- Size: 55-65 inches (140-165 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 87-108 inches (220-275 cm)
- Habitat: Wetlands, tundra, and coastal areas
- Diet: Aquatic vegetation, grasses, and agricultural crops
5. Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus)
The Dalmatian Pelican is one of the heaviest flying birds. It has a massive wingspan and a distinctive curly nape feathers.
- Size: 63-72 inches (160-183 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 98-110 inches (250-280 cm)
- Habitat: Lakes, rivers, and estuaries
- Diet: Fish, amphibians
4. Wood Stork (Mycteria americana)
The Wood Stork is easily recognizable with its bald head and long, thick bill. It is primarily found in the southeastern United States and parts of South America.
- Size: 33-45 inches (83-115 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 58-71 inches (147-180 cm)
- Habitat: Wetlands, swamps, and marshes
- Diet: Fish, amphibians, insects
3. Australian Pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus)
Known for its exceptionally large bill, the Australian Pelican is found across Australia and nearby regions.
- Size: 60-74 inches (152-188 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 96-110 inches (245-280 cm)
- Habitat: Coastal and inland waters, lakes, and rivers
- Diet: Fish, small birds, and amphibians
2. Great White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus)
The Great White Pelican is a large bird with a distinctive pinkish hue on its white plumage. It is often found in parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia.
- Size: 55-71 inches (140-180 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 96-110 inches (245-280 cm)
- Habitat: Lakes, rivers, and marshes
- Diet: Fish, amphibians
1. Wandering Albatross (Diomedea exulans)
The Wandering Albatross holds the record for the largest wingspan of any living bird. Its impressive wingspan allows it to glide over the ocean for long distances with minimal effort.
- Size: 42-51 inches (107-130 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 107-138 inches (274-351 cm)
- Habitat: Southern Ocean, islands in the sub-Antarctic region
- Diet: Fish, squid, crustaceans
