Pelicans are large water birds known for their distinctive pouch under the bill, which they use to catch fish. They belong to the family Pelecanidae within the order Pelecaniformes, sharing this order with cormorants, frigatebirds, and others. Pelicans are excellent divers and cooperative hunters, often fishing in groups to herd fish into shallow waters where they scoop them up with their elastic pouches.
- Belong to family Pelecanidae in order Pelecaniformes.
- Known for a large, expandable throat pouch for catching fish.
- Highly social birds that often fish cooperatively.
- Found in warm regions worldwide, near coasts and freshwater.
Pelicans use an expandable throat pouch for fishing and often hunt cooperatively in groups.
Pelicans belong to the family *Pelecanidae*.
Source Material
Author: National Audubon Society
Document: Pelicans | National Audubon Society
Date Published: 2024
Representative Species of Pelicans
There are eight recognized species of pelicans, all characterized by their massive bills and throat pouches. Some of the most well-known species include:
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Range | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Pelecanus erythrorhynchos | North America | Large white body with black wing tips |
| Brown Pelican | Pelecanus occidentalis | Coastal Americas | Brownish body; only pelican that dives deep for fish |
| Great White Pelican | Pelecanus onocrotalus | Africa, Europe, Asia | Enormous size, mostly white with pinkish bill |
| Dalmatian Pelican | Pelecanus crispus | Southeastern Europe, Asia | Silver-grey plumage, very large |
- All species share large, elastic pouches for catching fish.
- Pelicans are among the largest flying birds, with wingspans up to 3 meters.
- Species vary in plumage color and habitat preferences, ranging from freshwater lakes to ocean coasts.
There is no 'Great Blue Pelican;' notable pelican species include American White, Dalmatian, and Brown Pelicans.
The family name for pelicans is *Pelecanidae*.
Conclusion
Pelicans are iconic members of the family Pelecanidae, easily recognized by their huge bills and expandable throat pouches. With around eight species worldwide, they are masters of cooperative fishing and thrive in aquatic habitats from coasts to inland waters.
- Belong to family Pelecanidae in order Pelecaniformes.
- Use a unique throat pouch for catching fish, often hunting in groups.
- Major species include the American White Pelican, Brown Pelican, Great White Pelican, and Dalmatian Pelican.