Birdsong field guide
Red-billed Tropicbird
Phaethon aethereus
A large, elegant pelagic seabird distinguished by its long white tail streamers and a bright coral-red bill.
What it sounds like
A series of loud, shrill, and rattling screams or harsh, piercing whistles.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- The two central tail feathers, known as streamers, can reach lengths equal to the bird's total body size.
- Unlike many seabirds, it lacks a brood patch and instead transfers heat to eggs via its highly vascularized feet.
- It is a powerful plunge-diver, hitting the water from heights of up to 30 meters to catch flying fish and squid.
- Due to its short legs positioned far back on the body, it is nearly incapable of walking and must shuffle on its belly.
- Courtship involves elaborate aerial displays where multiple birds fly in vertical circles while screaming in unison.
Habitat
Pelagic waters and offshore islands with steep, rocky cliffs for nesting.
Range
Tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic, Eastern Pacific, and Northwestern Indian Oceans.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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