WHITE PELICAN Meaning and
Definition
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A white pelican is a large aquatic bird that belongs to the pelican family, scientifically known as Pelecanidae. It is characterized by its majestic appearance, with a massive body and distinct features that set it apart from other pelican species. The term "white" in its name refers to the bird's prominent white plumage, which covers most of its body. White pelicans are primarily found in North America, with their preferred habitats ranging from coastal areas to freshwater lakes and rivers.
These birds possess a long and broad wingspan, typically measuring around 8 to 9.5 feet (2.4 to 2.9 meters), making them skilled fliers. Their impressive wings allow them to soar gracefully and glide effortlessly over the water, providing a marvelous spectacle to observers. When in flight, the white pelican's large body contrasts with its black primary and secondary feathers, creating a striking visual appearance.
White pelicans are renowned for their unique feeding behavior, characterized by cooperative hunting. They form groups called colonies, swiftly swimming together to corner fish within shallow waters. Then, with synchronized effort, they use their large pouched bills to scoop up the fish and water, straining the latter out while keeping the captured prey. This cooperative hunting technique is efficient, allowing them to consume a significant volume of fish necessary for their diet.
In conclusion, the white pelican is an awe-inspiring avian species characterized by its prominent white plumage, large size, and cooperative hunting behavior. With its remarkable wing structure and unique foraging style, the white pelican thrives in aquatic environments, captivating observers with its impressive aerial displays.
Common Misspellings for WHITE PELICAN
Etymology of WHITE PELICAN
The word "white" comes from Old English "hwīt", which means "bright" or "shining". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "hwaitaz".
The word "pelican" has a more complex etymology. It originated from the Latin word "pelecānus" which was derived from Greek "pelekan". The Greek term was potentially borrowed from a language in the eastern Mediterranean. It is often speculated that it could have roots in Ancient Egyptian, where a bird with a similar appearance was called "mr.t", pronounced as "meret".
Overall, the etymology of "white pelican" combines the Old English word for bright or shining ("white") with a Latin and Greek origin for "pelican", referring to the bird's species.
Similar spelling word for WHITE PELICAN
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