Red-billed Tropicbird
Image: Julie Hall (cc-by-nc)
NameRed-billed Tropicbird
Common NameRed-billed Tropicbird
Scientific NamePhaethon aethereus
FamilyPhaethontidae
Wingspan (cm)102.5
Length (cm)49
Weight (g)430
Plumage DetailsPredominantly white plumage with fine black barring on the back and upperwings. Adults have a bright red bill and a distinctive black mask extending from the lores through the eye. Juveniles have a yellowish or dusky bill and more extensive black barring on the upperparts. Adults also possess long, slender white central tail streamers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, rattling, or screaming calls, often given in flight or near nesting colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatspelagic, coastal cliffs, rocky islands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, eastern Pacific, and Indian Oceans, breeding on remote oceanic islands and coastal cliffs.
Identifying FeaturesRed bill (adults), Black mask through the eye, Black barring on back and upperwings, Long central tail streamers (adults), Predominantly white body
Description
The Red-billed Tropicbird is a medium-sized seabird characterized by its predominantly white plumage, black eye mask, and in adults, a striking red bill. It is an agile flyer over tropical oceans, often seen performing spectacular plunge-dives to catch fish and squid.
