For reproduction Dalmatian pelicans need access to still, fish-filled waters undisturbed by human activity, with extensive flooded and shallow water areas. They usually return to their breeding sites, which may contain anything from a single nest to more than 250. Their nests are crude heaps of vegetation, placed on islands or dense mats of vegetation.
The bird lays between one and six eggs, chicks are born naked, but soon sprout white down feathers. Offspring fledge at around 85 days and become fully independent soon after.