190 THE PELICAN. 



They live chiefly on roots, grass, and small shell- 

 fish, which they either obtain by diving, or pick up 

 along the shores. 



This order includes the Swan, Duck, Goose, Pelican, 

 and many others. 



THE PELICAN. 



The Pelicans are a sociable tribe of birds, arid at 

 certain seasons of the year assemble in large flocks. 

 They live on fish, which they catch by diving, and arc 

 exceedingly voracious in their appetites. Several of 

 the species have large bags attached to the lower 

 mandible, in which they store their fish which they do 

 not immediately want. Some of them are trained to 

 fishing, and are thus made useful to mankind. Some 

 live far out at sea, while others reside in rivers and 

 lakes. There are several species of this bird, which 

 differ considerably from each other. 



THE GREAT PELICAN. 



How large is the Great Pelican? 



The Great Pelican is three feet and a half long, 

 from the bill to the end of the tail. The bill is one 

 foot and four inches in length. 



What is the colour of this bird ? 



Its colour is greyish white, or ash grey, except the 

 endi of the wings, which are black. 



What is the shape of the Pelican . ? 



The shape of its legs, body, and neck, is similar to 

 those of the goose, and swan. But its bill is peculiarly 



