Blue-footed Booby
Image: rcotlear (cc-by-nc)
NameBlue-footed Booby
Common NameBlue-footed Booby
Scientific NameSula nebouxii
FamilySulidae
Wingspan (cm)145
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)1600
Plumage DetailsAdults have white underparts, brown upperparts with white streaking on the head and neck, and a dark brown tail. The head is pale brown with fine white streaks, and the most striking feature is their vivid turquoise-blue webbed feet.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet birds, but males produce a high-pitched whistling sound, while females emit a honking or squawking call, especially during courtship and nesting.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal waters, rocky islands, cliffs, offshore islets
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of Central and South America, from Baja California to Peru, with significant breeding populations in the Galápagos Islands.
Identifying Featuresbright blue webbed feet, pointed, serrated bill, brown upperparts and white underparts, distinctive plunge-diving behavior
Description
The Blue-footed Booby is a medium-sized seabird renowned for its distinctive bright blue webbed feet. These agile divers plunge headfirst into the ocean from considerable heights to catch fish, often in groups.
