Pelicans

Pelicans are big birds that live near water. They are famous for their huge beaks. Under their beaks, they have a stretchy pouch like a net. They use this pouch to scoop up fish from the water. Pelicans are great at swimming and flying.

Fishing Skills

Pelicans dive into water to catch fish with their big beaks. Their throat pouch can hold up to three gallons of water. After scooping up fish, they squeeze the water out and swallow the fish. Some kinds of pelicans even fish together in groups.

Pelicans with big beaks resting at a zoo.
Pelicans with big beaks resting at a zoo. (Sifat Sharker / Wikimedia Commons)

Life Near Water

Pelicans live near lakes, rivers, and oceans. They often rest on sandbars or rocks in big groups called pods. Their wide wings help them glide for long distances. Pelicans build big nests on the ground or in trees.

Fun Facts

  • A pelican's pouch can hold more than its stomach can.
  • Pelicans have been around for over 30 million years.
  • Brown pelicans dive from high in the sky to catch fish.

Did You Know?

Baby pelicans, called chicks, stick their whole heads inside their parents' throats to eat.