(Part of the) common name of all species of the Pelecanidae family (order Pelecaniformes) and in the plural the general term for the family. The pelican family consists of birds which are among the largest (1,25 to 1,8 meter long) compared to other birds, and adapted to an aquatic life. They are widely distributed in tropical and some temperate parts of the world. Their characteristic feature is the very big, long and straight bill which is flattened from above and of which the lower mandible forms a large expandable pouch, well adapted to engulf fish. Pelicans usually occur in flocks (gregarious bird) and feed mainly on fish, but crustaceans are also taken.

Alternative form for pelicans : pelican.