A fragile sanctuary for Europe's largest great white pelican colony
In short: Hidden in the Russian steppe, Pelican Island serves as a vital breeding ground. This documentary captures the intricate lives of these birds while highlighting the environmental pressures threatening their survival.
Approximately 2,000 great white pelican breeding pairs congregate yearly on this landmass within the Manych Reservoir, situated between the Azov and Caspian Seas. It is the only pelican colony in Russia and stands as one of the largest in Europe.
The sanctuary faces significant risks from climate change and agricultural water diversion. As reservoir levels drop, previously isolated islands are becoming accessible to predators like foxes. The film uses close-up footage to document cooperative fishing, nesting behaviors, and the first flights of chicks.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Pelican Island | The Last Pelican Sanctuary
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