Tropicbirds (Phaethontidae)

 

The Phaethontidae are a small family of pelagic seabirds, with only three species in one genus, Phaethon. Tropicbirds have predominantly white plumage with elongated tail feathers; their legs are located far back on their body, and their feet are small, making walking on land difficult. Tropicbirds nest on islands in tropical and subtropical Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans; during non-breeding season they range widely over warm pelagic waters.

They nest in colonies, often on cliffs, and lay one white egg on the bare ground in holes, crevices or in dense vegetation. The eggs are incubated for 40–46 days, and the chick remains in the nest for 10-13 weeks before fledging. Tropicbirds hunt by hovering and then plunge-diving for fish (especially the flying fish) and squid.

 

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