Pelican Lake (Codington County, South Dakota) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pelican Lake |
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 Pelican Lake
Location in South Dakota
Pelican Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Codington / South Dakota, United States |
| Coordinates | 44°52′16″N 97°10′15″W / 44.871243°N 97.170953°W |
| Type | Glacial lake |
| Primary inflows | Big Sioux River |
| Primary outflows | Big Sioux River |
| Settlements | Watertown, South Dakota |
Pelican Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in the state of South Dakota, in the United States. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities. A part of the lake's north-east shore is right next to the city of Watertown, South Dakota.
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About Pelican Lake
Pelican Lake is a freshwater lake. It's known for its natural beauty and the wildlife it supports. Lakes like Pelican Lake are important parts of the environment. They provide homes for many plants and animals.
Where is Pelican Lake?
Pelican Lake is found in Codington County, South Dakota. This county is in the eastern part of South Dakota. The city of Watertown is a major city right on its edge. This makes the lake easy to access for many people.
How was Pelican Lake Formed?
Pelican Lake is a special type of lake called a glacial lake. This means it was formed a very long time ago by glaciers. As huge sheets of ice moved across the land, they carved out depressions. When the glaciers melted, these depressions filled with water. This is how Pelican Lake came to be.
Why is it Called Pelican Lake?
The lake gets its name from the pelican bird. Pelicans are large water birds known for their big pouches under their beaks. They use these pouches to catch fish. Pelicans are still common migratory birds in South Dakota. They often visit the lake during their travels.
Water Flow: In and Out
Pelican Lake is connected to the Big Sioux River. This river flows into the lake, bringing fresh water. The Big Sioux River also flows out of the lake. This means the river helps keep the lake's water moving and fresh. This connection is important for the lake's ecosystem.
