Where to Spot Pelicans in Tennessee
Find the best spots to see pelicans in Tennessee, from Reelfoot Lake to the Mississippi River. Get tips and shop pelican-themed gear.
The Short Answer: The best places to spot pelicans in Tennessee are Reelfoot Lake, the Mississippi River near Memphis, and the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge. American white pelicans are common during spring and fall migration. Brown pelicans are rare but possible. Bring binoculars and a camera for the best experience.
Where can you find pelicans in Tennessee?
Pelicans in Tennessee are most often seen at large bodies of water. Reelfoot Lake in the northwest is a top spot for American white pelicans during migration. The Mississippi River along the western border, especially near Memphis, attracts pelicans resting on sandbars. The Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge and Kentucky Lake also host pelicans. I have a friend who spotted a flock of over 100 white pelicans at Reelfoot last April.
What types of pelicans are seen in Tennessee?
The American white pelican is the species you will likely see. They are large, white with black wingtips, and have a distinctive pouch. Brown pelicans are coastal birds and very rare in Tennessee, but a few sightings have been recorded along the Mississippi River.
When is the best time to see pelicans in Tennessee?
Spring migration from March to May and fall migration from August to November are the peak times. Pelicans stop to rest and feed during their long qualitys. Summer sightings are less common, but non-breeding birds may linger.
What gear should you bring for pelican watching in Tennessee?
A good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope is essential. A camera with a zoom lens helps capture memories. Dress in layers and bring sunscreen. Many birders also like to show their love for pelicans with fun apparel. After your trip, check out our selection of pelican-themed items below.
| Product | Price | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Pelican Bird Lover T-Shirt | $13.99 | T-Shirt |
| Pelican Mug, Pelican Gifts, I Might Look Like I'm Listening... | $16.06 | Mug |
| Colorful Pelican Vinyl Decal | $4.34 | Sticker |
| Pelican T-Shirt | $26.95 | T-Shirt |
| Pelican Comfort Colors Vintage Coastal Bird T-Shirt | $13.99 | T-Shirt |
| Pelican Taking Off T-Shirt | $21.25 | T-Shirt |
| Funny Pelican Coffee Mug | $20.23 | Mug |
| Pelican Tshirt, Mardi Gras Pelican Shirt | $8.49 | T-Shirt |
| Pelican Bird Baseball Cap | $21.00 | Cap |
| Pelican Shirt. Pelican Gift. Bird Shirt. | $16.93 | T-Shirt |
| Pelican Bird T-Shirt, Men's, Size: Adult S, White | $19.26 | T-Shirt |
| Be a Pelican Not a Pelican't Mug | $13.99 | Mug |
| Pelican Pun Retro Comic Bird Meme T-Shirt | $10.66 | T-Shirt |
| Bird Wildlife Animal Beautiful Nature Pelican Pelican T-Shirt Vintage Brown Pelican | $19.89 | T-Shirt |
| Brown Pelican Van Gogh's Starry Night Wildlife Art T-Shirt | $15.95 | T-Shirt |
Pelican Gear and Gifts to Show Your Love for These Birds
Pelican Bird Lover T-Shirt
Retro-inspired design for bird lovers features a whimsical pelican illustration with a humorous quote. Perfect for those easily distracted by these majestic seabirds. Color: Black. Gender: male.
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Pelican Mug, Pelican Gifts, I Might Look Like I'm Listening to You but in My Head I'm Thinking About Pelicans, Funny Pelican Cup
Start your morning with a cup of coffee and a smile. This mug says it all: you might look like you're listening, but you're really thinking about pelicans. Great for birders.
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Colorful Pelican Vinyl Decal: Waterproof Laptop Sticker, Bird Lover Gift
Brighten up your laptop, water bottle, or car with this colorful pelican decal. Waterproof and durable, it's a fun way to show your interest in birds.
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Pelican T-Shirt
Simple and classic pelican t-shirt. A straightforward design for those who appreciate these birds. Comfortable cotton for everyday wear.
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Pelican Comfort Colors Vintage Coastal Bird T-Shirt
Vintage coastal vibe with a pelican graphic. Soft and faded look, perfect for birding trips or casual outings. Made by Comfort Colors for a relaxed fit.
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Pelican Taking Off T-Shirt
Capture the moment a pelican takes flight. This dynamic design is great for birdwatchers who love action shots. Comfortable and eye-catching.
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Funny Pelican Coffee Mug: Adorable Bird Lover Gift
Adorable pelican illustration on a ceramic mug. A funny gift for any bird lover. Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
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Pelican Tshirt, Mardi Gras Pelican Shirt, Mardi Gras Sweatshirt, Mardi Gras Graphic, Mardi Gras Party Shirt, Mardi Gras Louisiana Shirt
Celebrate Mardi Gras with a pelican twist. This shirt features a festive design perfect for parties or Louisiana pride. Made with quality materials.
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Pelican Bird Baseball Cap
Shield your eyes while birding with this pelican-themed baseball cap. A subtle embroidered pelican design. One size fits most.
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Pelican Shirt. Pelican Gift. Bird Shirt. Pelican T-Shirt. Pelican Lover Gift. Pelican Lover Shirt #OS4322
A straightforward pelican shirt for bird lovers. Comfortable and affordable. Great as a gift or for your own wardrobe.
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Pelican Bird T-Shirt, Men's, Size: Adult S, White
Original design by Nisha Prabhu. Show your love for these magnificent birds. White t-shirt with a stylish pelican graphic. Perfect for birdwatchers.
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Be a Pelican Not a Pelican't Mug
A punny mug that says "Be a Pelican Not a Pelican't". Motivational and funny. Great for starting the day with a laugh.
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Pelican Pun Retro Comic Bird Meme T-Shirt
Wear the joke loud with this hilarious unisex t-shirt featuring a pelican pun in retro comic style. Made for bird lovers, pun addicts, and goofballs. Soft cotton.
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Bird Wildlife Animal Beautiful Nature Pelican Pelican T-Shirt Vintage Bird Graphic Tee Brown Pelican T-Shirt OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
Vintage brown pelican graphic tee. OEKO-TEX certified for safety. A classic design for bird qualitys.
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Brown Pelican Van Gogh's Starry Night Wildlife Art Van Gogh's Starry Night Brown Pelican Bay Bomber Animal T-Shirt
Art meets birding with this Van Gogh inspired brown pelican design. A unique piece for any wildlife art lover. Comfortable and stylish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there pelicans in Tennessee year-round?
No, American white pelicans are migratory. They pass through in spring and fall but rarely stay for the summer. A few non-breeding individuals might linger, but the best chances are during migration.
What do pelicans eat in Tennessee?
Pelicans mainly eat fish. In Tennessee freshwater lakes, they feed on shad, minnows, and other small fish. They often work together to herd fish into shallow water.
Can you see pelicans at the Memphis Riverfront?
Yes, the Mississippi River at Memphis is a good spot. Pelicans rest on sandbars and islands. Mud Island and the Harahan Bridge area are worth checking.
How to identify American white pelican vs brown pelican?
American white pelicans are large, all white with black wingtips, and have an orange bill and legs. Brown pelicans are smaller, gray-brown with a white head, and have a darker bill. Brown pelicans are rare in Tennessee.
Do pelicans breed in Tennessee?
No, they do not nest in Tennessee. They breed in the northern Great Plains and Canada. Tennessee is a stopover during migration.
Plan Your Pelican Watching Trip
For more tips on birding in Tennessee, visit our Tennessee wildlife guide. If you spot a pelican, share your photos and consider adding a pelican sticker to your gear. And don't forget to check out our bird watching equipment section for binoculars and field guides. Happy birding!