Fly With Pelicans Over Humpback Whales Breaching!

Brown pelicans are one of America's most charismatic birds. They breed in the warm waters of Baja, California, but travel north in search of fish. Brown juveniles are still learning the ways of the ocean. Their more colourful elders have many secrets to pass on. The youngsters must learn the habits of every sea creature below. He soon discovers that some can guide him to a meal. Humpback whales are the easiest to spot. They have travelled over 2,500 miles from the Arctic to breed here. The males announce their arrival by slapping their five-metre-long fins. But this breaching is a more spectacular way of gaining attention. 35 tonnes of blubber make quite a splash. The pelican soon discovers that these show-offs have nothing to divulge at this time of year. They are too preoccupied with each other. Dolphins, on the other hand, are a different proposition. The youngsters learn that dolphins follow schools of anchovies. Huge pods form around the biggest shoals. The pelicans take their cue to dive from the dolphins. The deeper the fish, the higher the birds dive. The young pelican is perfectly adapted for plunge attacks. As he hits the surface, his legs and wings thrust backwards, forcing his bill around his prey. The pouch gapes, sucking in ten litres of water as its upper bill closes the trap.