Phaethonidae

Phaethonidae, commonly known as tropicbirds, is a family of seabirds belonging to the order Pelecaniformes. They are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, with the exception of the Atlantic Ocean. Tropicbirds are known for their distinctive forked tails, which are used for aerial displays and courtship rituals. They are also notable for their long, narrow wings and their ability to soar effortlessly on the wind.

Tropicbirds are primarily carnivorous, feeding on fish and squid. They are often seen diving from the air to catch their prey, a behavior known as stooping. They have a unique feeding technique where they use their forked tails to scoop up water and fish, which they then swallow whole.

The family Phaethonidae includes three genera: Phaethon, with four species; and two monotypic genera, Bulweria and Fregetta. The most well-known species is the Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus), which is known for its vibrant red bill and striking aerial displays.

Tropicbirds are generally considered to be long-lived birds, with some species living up to 20 years or more. They are also known for their impressive migratory patterns, traveling thousands of miles between their breeding and non-breeding grounds.

Despite their widespread distribution and abundance, tropicbirds are not currently considered to be threatened, with all species listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, they are vulnerable to human activities such as longline fishing and climate change, which can impact their food sources and breeding grounds. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these fascinating seabirds and their habitats.