Habitat:
Oceans, tropical islands, cliffs

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The White-tailed Tropicbird, or Phaethon lepturus, is an elegant and graceful seabird, recognizable by its bright white plumage and long central tail feathers that form a ribbon-like tail. Its bill is a vivid yellow, contrasting with its black eyes and feet. It primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical waters, nesting on isolated islands where it finds refuge in cliffs and rocky crevices. This bird is an excellent glider, using air currents to move effortlessly over the ocean. It feeds mainly on fish and squid, which it captures by diving with precision. Although often solitary at sea, it gathers in colonies for nesting.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the White-tailed Tropicbird, focus on coastal areas where it nests. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. The best opportunities arise during its gliding flights over the water. Try shooting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take advantage of soft, golden light. Be patient and discreet to avoid disturbing its natural behavior.