Red-tailed Tropicbird Identification

A large seabird found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Adult is nearly all white, with a heavy red bill and two long red tail streamers.

A large, snowy-white tropicbird. Adult lacks black in the wings and has only limited black around the eye.

Adult is nearly all white, with a heavy red bill, limited black around the eye, and two thin red tail streamers. Breeds primarily on coral atolls in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Nests on the ground, usually under the shade of a shrub or tree.

Juvenile has heavy black barring on the upperparts and lacks adult’s long tail streamers.

Red tail streamers can be difficult to see at a distance.

Juvenile has a black bill and heavy black barring above and lacks the adult’s tail streamers. Young bird remains at the nest for 10–18 weeks before flying off to sea alone.

Immature takes about 3 years to attain adult plumage. Note white tail streamers, black spots on wings, and dusky bill.

A strong flier capable of traveling long distances. Spends the nonbreeding season over the open ocean, far from land.

Performs group courtship displays with loud calling and unique “backpedaling” flight.