Phaëthons

Phaethons are a genus of birds belonging to the family Cetopsorhamphidae. This family contains only the genus Phaethons and a single species, Phaethon aethereus, commonly known as the red-billed tropicbird. While sometimes referred to as "tropicbirds" or "bosunbirds," the genus name Phaethon is derived from the Greek myth of Phaethon, the son of Helios, who attempted to drive the sun chariot.

These seabirds are characterized by their predominantly white plumage, long, slender, pointed beaks, and two elongated central tail streamers that can be significantly longer than their body. They are found in tropical and subtropical oceanic regions worldwide, typically far from land except during the breeding season. Phaethons are strong fliers and spend much of their lives at sea, feeding on fish and squid.

They breed on islands, nesting in crevices, ledges, or shallow burrows. The nesting sites are often located on remote, exposed coastlines. Phaethon aethereus is the most widespread species, with populations found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are often observed soaring gracefully over the water, using their keen eyesight to spot prey. Their presence is considered an indicator of oceanic health by some researchers.