Chasing the Black-Tipped Wing Pelican at Horicon Marsh: A Photographer’s Adventure
The Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike, and last week, I had an unforgettable encounter with one of its most striking residents: a pelican with black-tipped wings, likely an American White Pelican, given its distinctive features and the marsh’s reputation as a hotspot for these majestic birds. This wasn’t just a casual birdwatching stroll—it was a full-on adventure, complete with wild weather, a challenging hike, and a bird that seemed to know it was the star of the show.
The Journey to the Shot
Horicon Marsh, one of the largest freshwater marshes in the United States, is a sprawling 33,000 acres of wetlands teeming with biodiversity. It’s a bucket-list destination for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of its avian residents, and I’d heard whispers of pelicans gliding over its waters. Armed with my camera, I set out to capture one, but the day had other plans.
The weather was a rollercoaster—sun one minute, storm clouds the next. A fierce wind whipped across the marsh, making every step a battle. I hiked a solid distance, trudging through muddy trails and weaving between cattails, my gear bouncing against my back. The marsh is vast, and finding a pelican isn’t as simple as showing up. These birds, with their impressive 9-foot wingspans, are often seen soaring high or floating far out on the water, so I knew I’d have to be patient—and a little sneaky.
The Standoff
After what felt like an eternity, I spotted it: a lone pelican, its white feathers glowing against the moody gray sky, its wings tipped with striking black primaries that are most visible in flight. It was perched near the water’s edge, and I swear, it was sizing me up. Those piercing yellow eyes locked onto me as I tried to creep closer, camera in hand, heart pounding. This bird wasn’t just posing—it was staring me down, daring me to make my move.
I inched forward, crouching low to avoid spooking it, but the wind wasn’t doing me any favors. Gusts rustled the reeds, and I had to brace myself to keep my lens steady. The pelican didn’t budge. It was like it knew I was there for the shot and was deciding whether to let me have it. I held my breath, adjusted my settings, and clicked. The storm clouds parted just enough to cast a soft light, illuminating its sleek feathers and that iconic, oversized beak with its telltale pouch.
Why Black-Tipped Wing Pelicans Are So Special
American White Pelicans (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) are a sight to behold. Unlike their brown pelican cousins, these giants are primarily white, with black flight feathers that flash dramatically when they spread their wings. Horicon Marsh is a key stopover during their migration, where they refuel on fish like carp and perch, scooped up in that famous expandable throat pouch. Their synchronized fishing behavior—herding fish in groups like a well-rehearsed ballet—is a marvel of nature, though I didn’t catch that spectacle this time.
What makes these birds so captivating, beyond their sheer size, is their prehistoric aura. With a beak that can stretch to hold gallons of water and a wingspan rivaling some small planes, they’re like living dinosaurs. Yet, there’s a grace to them, especially when they glide low over the water or lock eyes with you, as mine did, with an almost regal confidence.
The Payoff
The hike, the wind, the on-and-off rain—it was all worth it. That pelican gave me a moment I won’t forget, and the photos, though hard-earned, captured its wild spirit. The black tips of its wings stood out against the stormy sky, and the texture of its feathers came through in crisp detail. But more than the images, it was the experience—the thrill of the chase, the connection with this incredible creature—that made the day unforgettable.
Tips for Photographing Pelicans at Horicon Marsh
If you’re inspired to track down these black-tipped beauties yourself, here are a few pointers from my adventure:
- Gear Up for Weather: Horicon’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring waterproof gear for yourself and your camera.
- Patience is Key: Pelicans can be elusive. Scout spots near open water or check with local birding groups for recent sightings.
- Move Slowly: These birds are perceptive. Approach quietly and keep your distance to avoid startling them.
- Timing Matters: Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography, and spring or fall migrations increase your chances of spotting pelicans.
- Respect the Marsh: Stick to trails to protect the fragile ecosystem, and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Final Thoughts
My encounter with the black-tipped wing pelican at Horicon Marsh was more than just a photo op—it was a reminder of why places like this matter. The marsh is a sanctuary, not just for birds like the American White Pelican, but for anyone seeking a moment of awe in the wild. That pelican’s stare-down? I’m pretty sure it was its way of saying, “You’re welcome for the show.” And what a show it was.
If you’ve got your own Horicon Marsh stories or tips for photographing pelicans, I’d love to hear them. And if you’re planning a visit, brace yourself for an adventure—you might just find yourself face-to-face with a bird that’s as bold as it is beautiful.