RARE SIGHT: Unusual pelicans species spotted on Masonboro Island

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — It was a rare sight when a large flock of American White Pelicans were spotted on Masonboro Island.

According to Masonboro Island Reserve, the species is not normally found on our coast and is usually far inland.

The American White Pelican tends to have a wing span reaching up to 9 feet wide, which is much larger than Brown Pelicans.

They have thick bodies and short legs, and shorter square tails.

Adult American White Pelicans are snowy white with black feathers visible only while flying when their wings are spread.