The classification of Pelecaniformes has undergone significant revision in recent years due to molecular and genetic studies.
Despite taxonomic changes, many birds traditionally associated with this group share distinctive physical and behavioral traits: Pelecaniformes - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics pelecaniform seabird
: Included families like the Pelecanidae (pelicans), Sulidae (gannets and boobies), Phalacrocoracidae (cormorants), Fregatidae (frigatebirds), and Phaethontidae (tropicbirds). Tropicbirds now reside in their own order, Phaethontiformes
: Many traditional members, such as frigatebirds and cormorants, have been moved to the order Suliformes . Tropicbirds now reside in their own order, Phaethontiformes . Found worldwide, these birds are primarily medium to
: Modern Pelecaniformes now primarily consist of pelicans, herons, ibises, spoonbills, the hamerkop, and the shoebill. Key Characteristics
The are a diverse order of aquatic birds that traditionally included all species with "totipalmate" feet—meaning all four toes are connected by webbing. Found worldwide, these birds are primarily medium to large waterbirds that depend on aquatic environments for their diet of fish and other marine life. Classification and Modern Taxonomy
