Permanent protections for Peru means safeguards for pelicans, too

Closeup of 4 pelicans

PACIFIC COAST :: ECUADOR, PERU, CHILE

To fetch dinner, the Peruvian pelican rarely plunges. Instead, it glides. Plying the Pacific Ocean, the bird skims the surface with its flame-orange bill, its royal blue throat pouch unfurling as it fills with seawater and fish. When satisfied with its meal, the seabird may unfold its massive wings and alight on one of the steep crags that drop into the shallow sea. Peruvian pelicans, which are much larger than their brown cousins, nest, fish, and rear their young along the coastal regions skirting southern Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.

In 2008, the majestic birds were declared a near-threatened species—a status they retain. Today, through an innovative funding mechanism known as Project Finance for Permanence, WWF is partnering with the Peruvian government and others to secure sustainable funding for the management of the country’s protected areas, including pelican stronghold Paracas National Reserve.

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World Wildlife magazine provides an inspiring, in-depth look at the connections between animals, people and our planet. Published quarterly by WWF, the magazine helps make you a part of our efforts to solve some of the most pressing issues facing the natural world.

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