Dalmatian pelicans on ice, Lake Kerkini, Greece
Dalmatian pelicans on ice, Lake Kerkini, Greece (© Guy Edwardes/Minden Pictures)
Endangered giants
These shaggy-coiffed birds are Dalmatian pelicans, seen here in Greece’s chilly Lake Kerkini. These waterfowl are among the largest freshwater bird species in the world, with wingspans of as much as 11ft (3.4m). Dalmatian pelicans generally breed during the first four months of the year, building their nests on or near the ground, and sometimes on vegetation floating in water. While breeding, they form monogamous pairs, although they generally don't pair up for life.
© Guy Edwardes/Minden Pictures