Pelecanus

The genus Pelecanus encompasses seven or eight species of water birds known as pelicans, belonging to the family Pelecanidae. These birds are easily identified by their large, elastic throat pouches, which they use as a dip-net to catch fish, though they swallow their catch immediately rather than storing it.1

Pelicans are among the largest of living birds, with some species reaching up to 180 cm (70 inches) in length and a wingspan of 3 meters (10 feet). While they can appear ungainly on land, they are impressive in flight, often soaring in small flocks. The sexes are similar in appearance, with males being larger.1

The brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is known for its spectacular plunge-diving technique for catching fish, while other species swim in formation to herd fish into shallow waters. Pelicans typically nest in colonies, laying one to four bluish-white eggs.1