Pelicans, Anhingas: Order Pelicaniformes

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Birds
Order: Pelicaniformes


"The Pelecaniformes are a (possibly invalid) order of medium-sized and large waterbirds found worldwide. As traditionally – but erroneously – defined, they encompass all birds that have feet with all four toes webbed. Hence, they were formerly also known by such names as totipalmates or steganopodes. Most have a bare throat patch (gular patch), and the nostrilshave evolved into dysfunctional slits, forcing them to breathe throughtheir mouths. They feed on fish, squid or similar marine life. Nestingis colonial, but individual birds are monogamous. The young are altricial, hatching from the egg helpless and naked in most. They lack a brood patch."

Wiki stub

Cite this Page: Chamberlain, H. 2009. "Pelicans, Anhingas" (OnLine) UntamedScience. Accessed Feb 09, 2012 at http://www.untamedscience.com/biodiversity/animals/chordates/birds/pelicans-anhingas
Chamberlain, H.
Untamed Science Crew
Created on: Mar 25th, 2009
Last updated: Jun 20th, 2011

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