Peruvian Booby
NamePeruvian Booby
Common NamePeruvian Booby
Scientific NameSula variegata
FamilySulidae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)72.5
Weight (g)1400
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, and underparts. The back and upperwings are dark brown to black, heavily speckled with white, creating a scaled or mottled appearance. The tail is dark, and the bill is blue-grey.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh squawks, grunts, and whistles, particularly noticeable within their dense breeding colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of Peru and northern Chile, breeding on offshore islands and coastal cliffs.
Identifying FeaturesWhite head and neck, Dark back with white speckling, Blue-grey bill, Red eyes, Dark webbed feet
Description
The Peruvian Booby is a medium-sized seabird characterized by its striking white head and neck, contrasting with a dark, speckled back and wings. It is an agile plunge-diver, feeding primarily on anchovies in the cold, productive waters off the Peruvian and Chilean coasts.
