Brown Pelican vs Mississippi Kite

In short

The Brown Pelican and Mississippi Kite are easily distinguished by their size and habitat preferences. Brown Pelicans are large, coastal birds often seen diving for fish, while Mississippi Kites are smaller raptors found inland, often soaring in open skies.

Identification tips

1. Size and Shape: Look for the large size and long bill of the Brown Pelican versus the smaller, more streamlined Mississippi Kite. 2. Habitat: Brown Pelicans are coastal; if you are inland, especially in open areas, it's more likely a Mississippi Kite. 3. Behavior: Observe feeding behavior; plunge-diving indicates a pelican, while aerial insect hunting suggests a kite. 4. Plumage: Note the brownish tones and throat pouch of the pelican compared to the gray and sleek appearance of the kite.

Size

Brown Pelicans are significantly larger than Mississippi Kites, with a wingspan that can reach over twice that of the kite.

Plumage

Brown Pelicans have a distinctive grayish-brown plumage with a long bill and throat pouch, while Mississippi Kites are more uniformly gray with a lighter head and a smaller, hooked bill.

Behaviour

Brown Pelicans are known for their dramatic plunge-diving to catch fish, whereas Mississippi Kites are agile fliers that catch insects mid-air.

Habitat

Brown Pelicans are typically found in coastal and estuarine environments, whereas Mississippi Kites prefer open woodlands and savannas, often near water but not coastal.

Voice

Brown Pelicans are generally silent, while Mississippi Kites have a distinctive high-pitched call, often heard during flight.