There are more than half a dozen species of pelicans, large water birds comprising the family Pelecanidae. They are characterised by a long beak and large throat pouch used for catching prey and draining water from the scooped up contents before swallowing. Pelicans have the largest bill of all birds. It can reach 18 inches in length. Underneath the bill, pelicans have a throat pouch that can hold three gallons of water. Pelicans are usually found in warm regions, near rivers, estuaries and lakes.
See also: American white pelican, Brown pelican, Eastern white/Great white pelican, Pink backed pelican, Spot-billed pelican/grey pelican
