Red-billed Tropicbird
Phaethon aethereus
The Red-billed Tropicbird is a rare visitor to British waters, typically seen in the summer months when individuals may wander into the Atlantic Ocean off the western coasts of the UK, particularly in the vicinity of the Celtic Sea. It is more commonly associated with tropical oceans, making any sighting in Britain a notable event.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Red-billed Tropicbird in the field.
The Red-billed Tropicbird can be identified by its mostly white plumage, black markings on the wings and back, a distinctive black mask, and a bright red bill, along with its exceptionally long tail streamers. Its white body and black accents, combined with the red bill, make it a striking sight.
The Red-billed Tropicbird is larger than a Common Tern, with its body and long tail streamers giving it a unique and elongated appearance.
The male Red-billed Tropicbird has a pristine white plumage with black markings on the wings, back, and a black mask around the eyes, complemented by a vibrant red bill and exceptionally long tail streamers that can be up to two times its body length.
Similar to the male, the female Red-billed Tropicbird also exhibits white plumage with black markings, a black mask, and a red bill, although her tail streamers are generally shorter than those of the male.
The Red-billed Tropicbird's call is a sharp, high-pitched whistle, often described as a loud, piercing sound that can be heard from a distance.
This species is known for its graceful, soaring flight over tropical waters, where it feeds on fish and squid by diving from considerable heights, and its notable habit of using its long tail streamers for display purposes.
The Red-billed Tropicbird might be confused with terns due to its superficial resemblance, but its black mask, red bill, and exceptionally long tail streamers distinguish it from these species, while its size and the pattern of its black markings on the wings and back further set it apart from other seabirds.
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