Pelicans are among the largest waterfowl and are recognizable by their large beaks with a large expandable pocket. It's a real fishing net! In addition to being used to capture prey, this buccal bag allows the Pelican to cool off during periods of extreme heat. Pelicans frequent the world's water bodies and are present near the rivers, lakes and oceans where they live in colonies. For the chicks they organize a day care system. Did you know that Pelicans can only take off after taking a big swing on the water because of their weight?