Red-tailed Tropicbird (Juvenile/Immature)

Brief Description

A medium-sized seabird with a stout body, webbed feet, and a strong, pointed beak. In its immature stage shown here, it lacks the characteristic long tail feathers of the adult.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: Tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans
• Typical Sighting Period: Year-round, primarily during breeding seasons which vary by island location
• Plumage Details: Juvelines feature heavy black barring or scaling over a white base on the upperparts. Unlike adults, they lack the long red tail streamers and pinkish wash on the breast.
• Ecological Significance: Functions as a pelagic predator, feeding primarily on flying fish and squid, helping to balance marine populations in open ocean ecosystems.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (Population stable)
• Observation Tips: Best observed from clifftop vantage points on oceanic islands where they nest. They are known for their spectacular aerial courtship displays involving backwards flying.