Pelicans (Pelecanidae)

 

Pelicans are large waterbirds with a long beak and a large elastic throat pouch used for catching prey. The family contains only one genus, Pelecanus, with eight living species. Pelicans inhabit temperate and tropical zones on all the continents except Antarctica. They are colonial breeders, often nesting on remote islands, cliffs, reedbeds or trees. All species lay 2-3 eggs, although larger clutches are known. Incubation takes 30–36 days; the young of ground nesting-species leave nest after ca. 4 weeks, but are fully-fledged only 10-12 weeks after hatching.

Pelicans feed primarily on fish, often hunting cooperatively. Most species fish near the water surface, but two American species usually feed by plunge-diving. Pelicans have been viewed as competitors by fishermen, and persecuted. These birds are also sensitive to disturbance and environmental pollution.

 

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