From Russia With Love

The Pelican such a comical clown A stranger bird I’ve yet to have found The longest beak The largest mouth Though not too many Here to be found St James’ Park London Where a trio can be seen A gift from Russia in 1664 And over the years there have been forty more The resident trio named Isla Tiffany and Gargi Have now been joined by Sun Moon and Star at 2.30 daily fed fresh roach and whiting a sight not to miss ~ a sight so exciting… But care must be taken No feeding allowed I once saw a lady ignoring this rule As he opened his beak Thought her arm was his treat All her shouting and screaming No damage was done So he made his retreat To find somewhere to eat And when fully sated In the sunshine would sleep Written 22nd February 2021 Great White Pelicans are huge birds that you really don’t want to get too close to, and their numbers have recently doubled in St James’s Park, London Fortunately, from just three to six — and the new arrivals all came from Prague Zoo. The pelicans – named Sun, Moon and Star – arrived in the park towards the end of May 2019, but have been hidden from public view whilst they acclimatised to their new surroundings. They’ve now been released to join the three resident pelicans – Isla, Tiffany and Gargi. Pelicans have been a feature of St James’s Park since 1664 when the Russian Ambassador presented them to King Charles II. Since then over 40 pelicans have made St James’s Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks, their home. The flock are fed their fresh fish, roach and whiting, at 2.30pm everyday by the wildlife officer. They are also quite partial to pigeons. Contest ALL YOURS (FEB 24) Sponsor Brian Strand N/A