throat fluttering

Throat fluttering is a physiological adaptation used by most pelecaniform birds, except tropic birds, to prevent overheating, particularly in tropical areas. This behavior involves the rapid, irregular movement of the throat pouch, allowing for evaporative cooling with minimal energy expenditure.1

While some young birds can flutter their throats, they may not be able to regulate their temperature effectively until they are older or have developed down. Pelecaniforms also use panting to increase evaporative cooling, with breathing rates and amplitude increasing under heat stress. These birds obtain water from their food and likely by drinking seawater, necessitating adaptations for salt elimination through specialized nasal glands.1