Dalmatian Pelican
Status: V category, Vulnerable, VU, A2c+3c. One of 2 species of the genus, rarely migrating through the territory of Kyrgyzstan. Monotypic species.
Distribution general and in the country. Water bodies of Mongolia, Xinjiang, Western Siberia, Kazakhstan, Asia Minor, the southern coast of Europe [22, 23]. In Kyrgyzstan, it is observed during spring and autumn migration in the Chui Valley and at Issyk-Kul (sighted near the villages of Grigorievka, Ak-Bulun, and in the western part of the lake) [2, 6].
Habitat. During migration, it inhabits natural and artificial fish-stocked water bodies with reed thickets and shrubs.
Population. Observed in groups of 2-3 birds, with two sightings of 6 and 7 birds. The total population during migration is unknown. One young Dalmatian Pelican was observed in December 2003 at a water body near Bishkek [40].
Life style (life cycles). Migratory bird. Nests on islands, in reed beds, sometimes alongside the Pink Pelican. Lays 2-3 eggs in late March - early April, incubation lasts 40 days. Feeds on fish.
Limiting factors. During migration, there is a lack of fish-stocked water bodies with cover. In nesting areas - habitat degradation due to changes in the hydrological regime of water bodies, their economic use, and the application of pesticides. Enemies include the Carrion Crow and the Yellow-legged Gull, which raid nests.
Breeding (keeping in captivity). No information available, although it is kept in many zoos.
Existing conservation measures. In 1985 [3], the Dalmatian Pelican was included in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan and is also listed in the Red Books of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.
Recommended conservation measures. Establishment of seasonal reserves and key ornithological areas in migration stopover sites.
Тармал бирказан
Dalmatian Pelican
Pelecanus crispus Bruch, 1832
Status: V category, Vulnerable, VU, A2c+3c. Monotypic species. Rare migrant bird in the Chui valley and Issyk-Kul region. Usually in small parties. Builds nests on small islands, lays 2-3 eggs in March-April, incubation period is 40 days. Limiting factors are lack of large ponds with fish and remote sites for roosting. Enemies - Carrion Crow and Yellow-legged Gull, which prey on eggs and chicks. It is proposed to establish key ornithological sites in the wetlands, which are convenient for roosting of the species.
