Pelecaniformes

The Pelecaniformes /pɛlɪˈkænɪfɔːrmiːz/ are an 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. Under this obsolete definition, the Fregatidae (frigatebirds), Sulidae (gannets and boobies), Phalacrocoracidae (cormorants and shags), Anhingidae (darters), and Phaethontidae (tropicbirds) were included in the Pelecaniformes. Subsequent molecular and morphological studies indicate they are in fact not close relatives to "true" Pelecaniformes, and they are now placed in their own orders, Suliformes and Phaethontiformes, respectively.

Pelecaniformes as currently defined comprise the pelicans, shoebill and hamerkop, which form a clade within the order (suborder Pelecani), along with herons (Ardeidae) and ibises and spoonbills (Threskiornithidae); the relationships between Pelecani and the other two families are still being debated by taxonomists.

Most have a bare throat patch (gular skin), and the nostrils have evolved into dysfunctional slits, forcing them to breathe through their mouths. They also have a pectinate (comb-like) nail on their longest toe, which is used to brush out and separate their feathers. They feed on fish, squid, and other aquatic animals. Nesting is colonial, but the individual birds are monogamous, pairing up to rear their respective clutches. These birds lack a brood patch. The young are altricial, hatching from the egg helpless and naked in most species.