Blue-footed Booby
Image: rcotlear (cc-by-nc)
NameBlue-footed Booby
Common NameBlue-footed Booby
Scientific NameSula nebouxii
FamilySulidae
Wingspan (cm)142.5
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)1550
Plumage DetailsAdults have brownish upperparts with white underparts. Their head and neck are pale brown with fine streaking, often appearing lighter than the back, and they have a dark mask around their eyes. The most striking feature is their vivid blue webbed feet.
Vocalization / CallMales produce high-pitched whistles, while females emit loud, harsh honks and grunts. Vocalizations are often used during courtship and territorial displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, marine, rocky islands, cliffs
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from the Gulf of California south along the coasts of Central and South America to Peru, with the largest breeding populations concentrated in the Galápagos Islands.
Identifying FeaturesBright blue webbed feet, Pale head with dark eye mask, Brown back and white belly, Pointed, serrated bill, Streamlined body adapted for plunge-diving
Description
The Blue-footed Booby is a distinctive seabird known for its bright blue webbed feet, which play a crucial role in courtship displays. These birds are agile plunge-divers, feeding on fish by soaring high above the water and plummeting headfirst into the ocean.
