Courtesy Photos

Dawn Waters caught this rare bird on camera on May 31 — an American white pelican in full breeding plumage spotted in the Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary. The American white pelican, larger than a bald eagle, is a large waterbird with snow-white feathers and black flight feathers. This waterbird has a long neck, a massive bill, thick body and short legs. A large yellow circle around the eyes and a yellow plate forms on the upper bill of breeding adults.