The Gippsland Lakes Great Pelican Count was held on Sunday, 2 April 2023 at various locations around the Gippsland Lakes.
The Great Pelican Count is an annual citizen scientist event run by Birdlife Australia that invites people of all ages and abilities to survey pelicans. We conduct 30-minute pelican surveys at various sites across the Gippsland Lakes and fringing wetlands, as well as Mallacoota, all simultaneously on the same day.
The Count is a snapshot – like a census – of pelicans across the Gippsland Lakes taken at the same time on the same day. The resulting information from these surveys allows us to record changes in Gippsland’s pelican populations, contributing to better management and protection for these majestic waterbirds.
Anyone can be involved in the count – you could get involved in 2024. Pelicans are distinctive and easy to spot making it an event the whole family can be involved in.
Gippslandscapes Podcast Episode
The Great Pelican Count with Deb Sullivan
We chat with Deb Sullivan from BirdLife Australia about the work to protect this amazing bird and totem for the Gunaikurnai – Booran the Pelican.
The Pelican Count is a COVID-safe event and will be run in line with all restrictions in place at the time. Participants are asked to look after their own safety and that of others when they participate.