What’s a flock of pelicans called?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

A flock of pelicans, my friend, is a truly fascinating sight. These majestic birds, with their long beaks and impressive wingspans, move together in a synchronized dance across the sky. But what is a group of these magnificent creatures called? Well, let me enlighten you with some interesting collective nouns for pelicans.

1. Brief: Imagine yourself standing on a tranquil beach, gazing out at the horizon. Suddenly, you spot a group of pelicans soaring gracefully above the shimmering waters. In that moment, you can refer to this gathering as a “brief” of pelicans. This term perfectly captures the fleeting nature of their flight, as if they were merely passing through, leaving you in awe of their elegance.

2. Pod: As you continue to observe these incredible birds, you may notice that they often come together in a tight-knit formation. This formation is known as a “pod” of pelicans. The word “pod” evokes a sense of unity and cooperation, as these birds work together to navigate the skies and hunt for fish in a synchronized manner.

3. Pouch: Perhaps one of the most striking features of pelicans is their large, expandable throat pouch. This unique characteristic allows them to scoop up fish from the water with astonishing precision. When a group of pelicans gathers to feed, it is referred to as a “pouch” of pelicans. Just picture a group of pelicans dive-bombing into the water, their pouches expanding as they scoop up their prey. It’s a sight to behold!

4. Scoop: When pelicans dive into the water to catch fish, they use their pouches as a scoop, skimming the surface and scooping up their meal in one swift motion. This action is so characteristic of these birds that a group of pelicans can also be called a “scoop” of pelicans. The term “scoop” vividly captures the way they gather food, almost as if they were scooping it up from the water’s surface.

5. Squadron: Lastly, when pelicans take to the skies in a larger group, they are often referred to as a “squadron” of pelicans. This term emphasizes the organized and disciplined nature of their flight, as they soar through the air in perfect formation.

Now, my dear reader, let me share a personal experience I had with a flock of pelicans. I remember visiting a coastal town one summer, where I had the pleasure of witnessing a squadron of pelicans gliding effortlessly above the ocean. The way they moved in unison, their wings gracefully flapping in the breeze, left me in utter awe. It was a true spectacle of nature’s beauty.

A group of pelicans can be described by various collective nouns, each capturing a unique aspect of their behavior and appearance. Whether it’s a brief, pod, pouch, scoop, or squadron of pelicans, these terms allow us to appreciate the wonder of these magnificent birds and their remarkable ability to navigate the skies and waters with grace and precision.