What is the Difference Between Pelicans and Storks?

Pelicans and storks are both large, aquatic birds with long bills, curved necks, and similar colors. However, there are several key differences between the two:

1. Size and Weight: Pelicans are generally larger and heavier than storks. Pelicans can weigh between 9lbs and 30lbs, while storks have a maximum weight of 7.3lbs.
2. Bill: Pelicans have a large gular pouch on their lower mandible, which is absent in storks. Storks have a long, straight bill without the pouch.
3. Feet: Pelicans have short, stout legs with fully webbed feet, which are better suited for swimming and spending time in water. Storks, on the other hand, have long legs with partially webbed feet, making them better adapted for wading in shallow water.
4. Habitat and Diet: Pelicans are water birds and spend more time in water compared to storks, which are wading birds. Pelicans can hunt for food while far off the coast of land, unlike storks that wade into the water to snatch prey.
5. Family: Pelicans belong to the Pelecanidae family, while storks belong to the Ciconiidae family.
6. Number of Species: There are about eight species of pelicans, while storks have around 19 species.

Despite these differences, both birds share some similarities, such as their aquatic nature, large stocky bodies, curved necks, and long bills.

Comparative Table: Pelicans vs Storks

Here is a table highlighting the differences between pelicans and storks:

Both pelicans and storks are aquatic birds with large, stocky bodies, curved necks, and long bills. However, they exhibit several differences in their appearance, size, and behavior. Pelicans are larger and heavier than storks, with a characteristic pouch on their bill. They have shorter, stouter legs with fully webbed feet, which are designed to help them swim. On the other hand, storks have long legs and partially webbed feet, allowing them to wade in water to find prey. Storks also have longer necks than pelicans.