Sulidae

Brown boobytern

Blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii) on Santa Cruz, Galápagos Islands

Northern Gannet 2006 2

Nesting bluefoot

Abbott's booby fledgling

Masillastega rectirostris holotype sp140b

Sulidae is a family of seabirds which includes the gannets and boobies. These birds are known for their distinctive diving behavior, plunging into the ocean at high speeds to catch fish and squid. Members of the Sulidae family are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, with some species also venturing into temperate regions.

Description

Sulidae species are medium to large birds, typically with white or light brown plumage, often with distinctive black markings on the wings or head. They have long, pointed wings and a characteristic gannet-like shape, with a long neck and a strong, pointed beak. Their bodies are streamlined for diving, with air sacs under their skin to cushion the impact with the water.

Behavior

The diving technique of the Sulidae is their most remarkable feature. They can dive from heights of 30 meters (100 feet) or more, folding their wings back just before hitting the water to minimize resistance. This allows them to reach depths of up to 20 meters (66 feet) in pursuit of prey. They are also capable swimmers, using their wings to propel themselves underwater.

Sulidae species are colonial breeders, nesting in large, dense colonies on cliffs or small islands. They lay one to three eggs, depending on the species, which are incubated by both parents. The chicks are altricial, meaning they are born in an undeveloped state and require significant parental care.

Diet

The diet of Sulidae birds consists mainly of small fish and squid, which they catch by diving. They have excellent eyesight, which allows them to spot prey from great heights before diving.

Conservation

While some Sulidae species are abundant, others face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing, which reduces their food sources. Conservation efforts are in place for several species, focusing on protecting breeding sites and regulating fishing practices to ensure sustainable prey populations.

Classification

The family Sulidae is part of the order Suliformes, which also includes the frigatebirds, cormorants, and anhingas. Within the Sulidae family, there are two genera:

• Morus - the gannets
• Sula - the boobies

These genera include several species, such as the Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus), the Blue-footed Booby (Sula nebouxii), and the Red-footed Booby (Sula sula).

See Also

• Seabird conservation
• Bird migration
• Marine biology