Walvis Bay is a coastal town next to the aptly named Pelican Point. It has a tidal lagoon that is home to many species including pelicans and flamingos. As well as passenger boats as we see in this video, there are plenty of fishing boats and larger ships. Wherever there is fish, you are likely to find seals and sea lions!

All About Pelicans

Pelicans are large and stocky birds that are known for their big and uniquely shaped bills and the huge amount of fish that they consume in one day. They can weigh up to four pounds! These guys are not looking for human company on this boat – they are after some fish! You don’t have to be a bird expert to be able to spot a pelican. They have large bodies, short legs, long and broad wings, a long neck, webbed feet, and a large pouch under their bill. Their bodies are adapted for gliding on air currents and retrieving fish from under the water. Mostly, their feathers are light but some have brown or brighter plumage. All of them, however, have brighter colors around their bills and pouches. During the breeding season, they have a bump on the upper part of the bill that falls off once breeding is over. There is also a wide variety in size. The smallest species can be as little as eight pounds but the largest (the Dalmatian pelican) can weigh a massive 26 pounds! The scientific name for the pouch is the gular. They use it to scoop up water and fish and then the water drains out and they swallow the fish. There is also a very useful downward hook on the upper part of the bill that can be used to catch fish!

Sea Lions and Fish

Sea lions are cheeky little creatures who love to frolic and play. They look so cute when walking on all fours as we see from this one waddling along the deck of the boat, but they can effectively dive to great depths when needed. They are a highly adaptable species and can survive in a range of climates. They also have social structures that are very similar to humans. Sea lions are super smart and can learn simple sign language! We wonder what sign language for “give me some fish” is!

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