Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Red-billed Tropicbird

Scientific name: Phaethon aethereus


Red-billed Tropicbird

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: PHAETHONTIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01–31.12

Gestation: 42–46 jours

Births: 70–90 jours


Habitat:
Cliffs, isolated islands, tropical oceans

Description:
The Red-billed Tropicbird is an elegant seabird, easily identifiable by its striking white plumage, long tail feathers, and vivid red bill. It primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic Ocean, the Red Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. This bird spends most of its time at sea, returning to land only to nest on steep cliffs or isolated islands. It feeds mainly on fish and squid, which it catches by skillfully diving. Although generally solitary, it can be seen in small groups during the breeding season. Its population is stable, but it is vulnerable to human disturbances and introduced predators at its nesting sites.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Red-billed Tropicbird, focus on nesting sites on cliffs where they are more accessible. Use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more to capture details without disturbing them. The best times to observe them are early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Be discreet and avoid sudden movements to prevent scaring them. If possible, use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images.

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