Last Updated: December 2, 2009 by Paul Lehman

winter
summer
migration
year round
extralimital range

Range: In North America, breeds at Dry Tortugas, Florida; casual elsewhere along Gulf Coast and Southern Atlantic Coast.

Identification: (Anous stolidus)

A dark, tern-like bird, breeds on Dry Tortugas in Florida. Adult is dark brown overall with white forehead, long and stout black bill, and short black legs. Juveniles and immatures are entirely dark brown with white forehead and pale wing coverts. Sexes are similar. Black Noddy is black overall with thinner bill and white cap.

Length: 39 (cm) Wingspan: 81 (cm)

Habitat:

Open ocean, coastal areas.

Behavior:

Nest is a platform supported by tree branches. Breeds colonially. Often in small flocks. Flight is buoyant, graceful.

Feeding:

In flight, dips to water's surface to pick off fish and other small aquatic organisms.

Field Notes

Expanded Life History

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