How do pelicans regurgitate food?

Pelicans regurgitate food primarily to feed their young or to expel indigestible parts of their meals. After catching fish in their large bills, they may partially digest the prey and store it in their expandable throat pouch. When feeding their chicks, adult pelicans will regurgitate the partially digested food by contracting their throat muscles, allowing the food to be pushed back up and out of the pouch. This process helps ensure that the chicks receive nutrient-rich food while also allowing the adult to clear its system of excess or indigestible material.