American White Pelican in Flight

My fascination with pelicans began on Galveston Island in April 2011 and continued this past January in La Jolla, CA. Those were all Brown Pelicans. Here I've become acquainted with American White Pelicans and they are just as beautiful to watch. After our drive through the countryside this morning, we came back on Hwy 83 south of the lakes. With few vehicles on the viaduct dividing Lake Sakakawea and Lake Audubon, Rich could stop on the shoulder for a short time. That's all the time needed to get these great shots of this pelican taking flight. Timing is everything and we seem to often be blessed with great timing. They are so large and appear so awkward as they attempt their take off but are so graceful once they are in the air.

Lovin' Life ~~ And Pelicans