If you feel like you’ve seen a lot more pelicans around than in years past, you’re not alone. While there isn’t a formal estimate from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for area pelican population, DNR Migratory Bird specialist Taylor Finger says they are starting to keep track of them when they’re seen. He emphasizes that the evidence for growing numbers is apparent. 

Finger says that by counting them when they do their surveys for other species, the DNR hopes to start recording long-term data on pelican numbers. A different estimate this spring says there are about 2500 nesting pairs in the area. 

(Photo by Arlene Koziol)