Black Noddy

Overview

The black noddy, also known as the white-capped noddy, is a medium-sized seabird in the family Laridae characterised by black plumage and a white cap. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of 35–37 cm with a wingspan of 66–72 cm and a weight of 98–144 g
• Dark plumage featuring a pale crown, a small white crescent under each eye, and a white spot above
• Long tapering wings, a truncated tail, and a sharply pointed black bill
• Fully webbed feet that are black in most subspecies but orange in melanogenys

Habitat

The species has a worldwide distribution in tropical and subtropical seas, with widespread colonies in the Pacific Ocean and scattered populations in the Caribbean, central Atlantic, and northeast Indian Ocean. It typically forages within 80 km of shore and returns to colonies or other islands to roost at night.

Diet

It feeds on fish and squid by flying low over the surface of the sea to pick them up. The birds may associate with other seabirds in areas where predatory fish drive small fish to the surface.

Did you know?

The genus name Anous is derived from ancient Greek for 'stupid' or 'foolish', a moniker likely inspired by the birds' constant head-dipping breeding display. They are so tolerant of humans that they can often be picked up directly off their nests.