Red-billed Tropicbird

Phaethon aethereus

The Red-billed Tropicbird, scientifically known as Phaethon aethereus, is a striking seabird with a predominantly white plumage, a red bill, and black markings on its wings and tail. It has long tail streamers that make it easily recognizable in flight. This species is known for its graceful aerial acrobatics and is often found soaring over tropical oceans. It primarily feeds on fish and squid, catching its prey by plunge-diving from the air. Red-billed Tropicbirds nest in colonies on remote, rocky islands and cliffs, where they lay a single egg in a ground scrape or crevice. They are vulnerable to disturbances at their breeding sites and are sometimes threatened by introduced predators such as rats and cats.

Habitat: Tropical oceans and remote, rocky islands