Masked Booby

The masked booby (Sula dactylatra), also known as the masked gannet or blue-faced booby, is a striking seabird from the family Sulidae. With its long pointed bill of a yellowish hue, elongated neck, streamlined body, and slender wings, it is an embodiment of aerodynamic grace. The adult masked booby is predominantly bright white with contrasting black wings and tail, and a distinctive dark facial mask. It is the largest of the booby species, measuring 75–85 cm in length.

Identification Tips

When identifying the masked booby, look for its large size, white plumage with black flight feathers, and the dark mask around its eyes. The bill is long, conical, and yellowish, often with a greenish tinge. The legs are typically yellow-orange or olive. Both sexes exhibit similar plumage, but females are generally slightly larger and heavier than males.

Habitat

Masked boobies inhabit tropical oceans and prefer to nest on islands and atolls that are far from the mainland and adjacent to deep waters, which are essential for foraging.

Distribution

This species is found across tropical oceans worldwide, with the exception of the eastern Atlantic and eastern Pacific. In the latter region, it is replaced by the closely related Nazca booby (Sula granti).

Behaviour

Masked boobies are known for their spectacular plunge-diving behavior, striking the ocean at high speeds to catch prey, primarily flying fish. They are territorial during the breeding season and perform various displays to defend their nesting sites and attract mates.

Song & Calls

The masked booby is generally silent at sea but can be quite vocal in its breeding colonies. Males produce a descending whistle, while females emit a loud honk.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in colonies on remote islands. The female lays two chalky white eggs in a shallow depression on the ground. Typically, only the first chick to hatch survives, as the second is often killed by its elder sibling.

Similar Species

The masked booby can be distinguished from the Nazca booby by its yellow bill and larger size. The white morph of the red-footed booby is smaller and has different coloration on the feet and face.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the masked booby consists mainly of flying fish and squid. They are adept divers, plunging from great heights to capture their prey underwater.

Conservation Status

The masked booby is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is experiencing a decline. Conservation efforts continue to monitor and protect this species and its habitat.