Blue-footed Booby
NameBlue-footed Booby
Common NameBlue-footed Booby
Scientific NameSula nebouxii
FamilySulidae
Wingspan (cm)152
Length (cm)81
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly white on the underside and chest, with a streaky brown head and neck. The back and upperwings are dark brown, contrasting with the white belly. The most distinctive feature is their vibrant, turquoise-blue webbed feet.
Vocalization / CallMales typically produce high-pitched whistling calls, while females emit harsh honking or squawking sounds, especially during courtship and territorial displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, rocky islands, tropical oceans, subtropical oceans
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of Central and South America, from Baja California south to Peru, with the largest and most famous breeding populations located in the Galápagos Islands.
Identifying Featuresbright blue webbed feet, streaky brown head and neck, white belly, dark brown back and wings, long pointed bill
Description
A medium-sized seabird renowned for its striking bright blue webbed feet, which play a crucial role in its elaborate courtship displays. These agile birds are expert plunge-divers, feeding primarily on fish by diving headfirst into the ocean. They are often seen nesting in colonies on rocky islands.
