His boat tour was ambushed in the best way.
While it’s widely believed that birds are the descendants of dinosaurs, they often seem far less fearsome than their prehistoric relatives. However, that isn’t always the case—just ask wildlife photographer Sean Weekly.
Earlier this year, during a boat tour of Lake Kerkini in Greece, Weekly had an encounter with a bird that was almost as formidable as its ancient ancestors: a Dalmatian pelican.
As he traveled in the chartered boat, a pelican unexpectedly landed on the vessel’s canvas roof, making her presence impossible to ignore. “Ambushed by a living dinosaur,” Weekly aptly described the moment in a social media post.
He wasn’t exaggerating. Weighing up to 25 pounds and boasting a wingspan that can exceed 11 feet, Dalmatian pelicans certainly leave a lasting impression.
A follow-up video hinted that this pelican was quite savvy and seemed to be expecting some sort of reward. For Weekly, the chance to photograph these magnificent birds made the trip unforgettable. “Without a doubt, this has to be one of my favorite places I’ve had the privilege to visit over the years—the stunning Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece,” he shared. “My passion for this location, its people, and the wildlife has allowed me to create a rich portfolio of these incredible birds.”