Pelican

birds · water · fishing pro

Built-in pouch. A pelican's huge throat pouch works like a scoop, catching fish and then draining out the water before swallowing.

Long beak. Their long beaks help them scoop up prey from the water with surprising skill.

Pale feathers. Most pelicans have pale plumage, though the brown and Peruvian pelicans are darker.

Dressing up. Before breeding season, their bills, pouches, and bare facial skin turn bright, eye-catching colors.

Big water birds. Pelicans are among the largest water birds, spending lots of time near lakes, rivers, and seas.