Sulids

Sulids are a family of seabirds, Sulidae, within the order Suliformes. They include the boobies and gannets and are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. The family comprises several genera, most notably Sula (boobies) and Morus (gannets), with additional genera such as Papasula. Across these groups there are roughly 30 recognized species.

Morphology and behavior: Sulids are medium to large seabirds with long wings suited for fast flight. Adults typically show contrasting plumage patterns, often with white bodies and darker wings, though coloration varies by species. They have long, pointed bills and strong, streamlined bodies adapted to their feeding style.

Feeding: Sulids are skilled plunge-divers. They fly high above the water and dive from height to catch schooling fish and squid, sometimes coordinating with conspecifics or scavenging prey taken by others. They may also skim the surface or pick prey near the water.

Breeding: They nest in colonies on islands, cliffs, or coastal sites. Nests are simple scrapes or cup-shaped, built from vegetation, debris, or guano. Clutch size is usually one to two eggs, incubated by both parents. Chicks are fed by regurgitated prey and fledging periods vary by species.

Distribution and conservation: Sulids occur in all oceans, with the greatest diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. They are affected by threats such as overfishing and bycatch, habitat disturbance on breeding sites, and plastic pollution. Conservation status varies by species; many are listed as least concern, while a few taxa face elevated risk.