/
Large seabird of offshore tropical waters around the globe; not seen from the mainland.
Not listed
Indigenous: Red-Legged Gannet, Red-Footed Gannet
At a glance
FamilyBoobies and Gannets
SizeLarge
RarityUncommon
HabitatCoastlines, harbours, offshore waters, estuaries, headlands, beaches, and large inland water when conditions suit.
Best timeMost reliable in Queensland from October to November.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by Barry Edmonston
Range map
Range map
242visible hotspots
1227visible records
3states
SparseModerateDense hotspot
Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.
Species notes
Overview
Adult plumage is variable, but all have bright red feet and colorful bill and face; some have wholly brown plumage, others are white with a black trailing edge to the wings; the tail can be black or white. Immatures of all types are brown overall with dull pinkish feet. Looks smaller and more slender than other boobies, with more crooked wings.
Behavior
Large seabird of offshore tropical waters around the globe; not seen from the mainland. Nests on offshore islands (usually in trees and bushes, unlike other boobies, which nest on the ground).
Gallery