or birds. 
185 
PELICAN. 
The Pelican of Africa is much larger than 
a swan, and somewhat of the same shape 
and colour. It differs, however, from all 
other birds, in the bill and the great pouch 
underneath, which are wonderful, and de- 
mand a distinct description. This enormous 
bill is fifteen inches from the point to the 
opening of the mouth, which is a good way- 
back behind the eyes. To the lower edges 
of the under chap, hangs a bag, reaching the 
whole length of the bill to the neck, and is 
capable of containing fifteen quarts of water. 
Ij is not covered with feathers, but with a 
short downy substance, as smooth and as 
soft as satin. Such is the formation of this 
extraordinary bird. 
