Pelecaniformes

High school (ages 12+)
Animals & Nature

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/pelecaniformes

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?Pelecaniformes
2. What is the reproductive strategy?Colonial nesters, monogamous pairs, altricial young, lack of a brood patch
3. Why do Pelecaniformes breathe through their mouths instead of their noses?Their nostrils have turned into slits that don't work, so they breathe through their mouths to keep water out when they dive or scoop prey.
4. How do Pelecaniformes keep their feathers waterproof?They use a comb‑like claw on their longest toe to clean and spread oils over their feathers, which keeps them dry and helps them stay buoyant.

Totipalmate: A foot structure where all four toes are connected by webbing, characteristic of historically defined Pelecaniformes.
Pectinate Nail: A comb-like structure on the edge of a bird's claw, used for preening and feather maintenance.
Altricial Young: Offspring born in a very immature and helpless condition, requiring extensive parental care.
Gular Pouch: An expandable pouch of skin under the throat, used by some birds for catching and holding prey.