Habitat:
Rocky islands, coastal waters, tropical seas

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

Identification and description:
The Brown Booby, Sula leucogaster, is a medium-sized seabird easily identified by its chocolate-brown plumage contrasted with a white belly. It has a strong, pointed beak, perfect for catching fish by diving from the air. Adults measure about 70 to 80 cm in length with a wingspan of 130 to 150 cm. They are often seen gliding over tropical and subtropical waters, feeding mainly on fish and squid. The Brown Booby is a gregarious bird, often seen in colonies on rocky islands where it nests. Its population is stable, although threats such as pollution and habitat disturbance can affect it locally.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Brown Booby, focus on coastal areas where it is often seen gliding. Use a lens of 400mm or more to capture precise details of its plumage and hunting behavior. Try shooting early in the morning or late afternoon to take advantage of soft, golden light. Be patient and wait for the bird to dive to capture dynamic images. Maintain a safe distance of at least 10 m to avoid disturbing the bird and use a tripod to stabilize your camera during shots.