Order: Pelecaniformes
Family: Pelecanidae
Status: Category III (VU). Vulnerable species.
Importance for gene pool preservation: Nesting and wintering populations are important for Turkmenistan’s wildlife gene pool.
Distribution: Flyways along large river valleys, lakes, reservoirs, Caspian coast; nesting at Sarykamysh Lake; wintering mainly at large reservoirs. Outside Turkmenistan: Central Asian countries, northern Mediterranean, Black Sea coasts, southern Caspian region.
Habitat: Large open freshwater bodies rich in fish.
Population and trends:

In spring 1991, about 11,000 birds flew along Murgab valley.

In March 1996, a flock of 4,000 was seen at Saryyazy reservoir.

Several hundred pairs nested on Sarykamysh Lake in mid-1980s.

In 2009, 42 pairs nested on an island near Daryalyk.

Between 2012-2021, 1 to 249 individuals registered during migration.

Observed regularly in various nature reserves and lakes in different years.
Main threats: Disturbance, pollution of water bodies, flooding of nesting islands.
Biological traits: Migratory, partially breeding and wintering species. Spring migration from late February to early May; autumn migration late September to November. Breeds in colonies on Sarykamysh islands with 1-3 eggs per clutch. Feeds mainly on fish.
Conservation measures:

Listed as Least Concern (LC) on IUCN Red List.

Included in Turkmenistan Red Data Book since 1985.

Protected in Gaplangyr, Amu Darya, Hazar, Badkhyz Nature Reserves, and Yeradzhy Sanctuary.

Habitats are designated as Important Bird Areas (IBA).

Included in Bonn Convention Annex II (CMS) and AEWA.

Recommended to nominate large water bodies for Ramsar sites and increase public awareness.

Regular monitoring of nesting and migration sites recommended.