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St. James's Park Pelicans Hatch First Chicks in 360 Years!
19 Jun
Summary
- First pelican chicks hatched in St. James's Park in over 360 years.
- Four chicks survived their first month, born to six adult great white pelicans.
- Expert care is provided to the chicks, described as 'ugly' and dinosaur-like.
For the first time in more than 360 years, St. James's Park has welcomed new life with the hatching of pelican chicks. The historic event, which began on May 17, 2026, has seen four chicks survive their initial month. These young pelicans are the offspring of the park's six resident great white pelicans, a tradition dating back to 1664 when a pair was gifted to King Charles II.
Park officials are 'gobsmacked' by this unprecedented breeding success. Pelicans typically require larger social groups to initiate courtship, a condition not previously met in the park's smaller pelican population. Expert care is being provided by a team of specialists to ensure the chicks' survival. Described as 'ugly' and dinosaur-like, they are growing rapidly and developing their downy covering.
Visitors are being asked to give the vulnerable chicks space as they prepare to take to the water in approximately 12 weeks. This rare natural occurrence brings a moment of joy and wonder, showcasing nature's resilience and capacity for surprise, even in the heart of the city.
