The spot-billed pelican (Pelecanus philippensis) is a large, long-necked waterbird easily recognised by its bill, marked with distinctive blue-black spots. These sociable birds inhabit Sri Lanka’s dry zone, favouring shallow freshwater and coastal habitats.

Often seen in flocks, spot-billed pelicans work cooperatively to drive fish into shallow waters, using their expandable pouches to scoop up their prey. They are skilled fliers, travelling in loose V-formations and  covering vast distances in search of suitable water bodies.

During the breeding season, they nest in trees found in swamps or flooded areas, forming dense colonies where multiple nests are closely spaced. Each nest typically contains a clutch of two to three eggs.