Pink-backed Pelican vs Dalmatian Pelican
Pelecanus rufescens versus Pelecanus crispus
Play a quiz with Pink-backed Pelican and Dalmatian Pelican
Pink-backed Pelican
Dalmatian Pelican
In short
The bill and plumage are the most reliable field marks to distinguish these pelicans. The Pink-backed Pelican has a smaller bill and a distinctive pinkish hue on its back, while the Dalmatian Pelican features a larger bill and lacks the pinkish coloration.
Identification tips
Look for the pinkish hue on the back of the Pink-backed Pelican. Check the size and bill: the Dalmatian Pelican is larger with a bigger bill.
Size
The Dalmatian Pelican is generally larger than the Pink-backed Pelican.
Plumage
The Pink-backed Pelican has a pinkish hue on its back, which is absent in the Dalmatian Pelican.