Anous albivitta
The Grey Noddy (*Anous albivitta*), often characterized by its delicate build and striking appearance, is a charming seabird measuring approximately 28-31 cm in length with a wingspan of 46-60 cm and weighing around 75-90 g. Its plumage is predominantly pale grey, contrasting sharply with a brilliant white cap that extends from the forehead to the nape, often tinged with a delicate pale grey on the crown, and a distinctive dark eye encircled by a narrow white crescent. Identification relies h...
Primarily a pelagic seabird, the Grey Noddy inhabits tropical and subtropical oceanic waters, breeding exclusively on remote offshore islands and islets, typically at low elevations along rocky coastlines, cliffs, or among sparse coastal vegetation.
The Grey Noddy's diet consists primarily of small fish, such as anchovies and sardines, along with small squid and crustaceans, all captured via surface-feeding, dipping, or shallow dives over open water.
Grey Noddies are highly diurnal, spending daylight hours foraging over open ocean and returning to communal roosts on breeding islands at night, often congregating on cliff ledges or sheltered trees. Their foraging strategy involves graceful surface-feeding, dipping their bills into the water to ...
The Grey Noddy has a widespread but disjunct distribution across tropical and subtropical oceanic islands of the Pacific and South Atlantic. Breeding populations are primarily found on remote islands, including Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, and the Kermadec Islands, as well as New Zealand's N...
Least Concern
- The Grey Noddy can drink seawater, thanks to specialized salt glands that excrete excess sodium, allowing it to remain hydrated far from freshwater sources. - Its name, "noddy," is thought to derive from its habit of nodding its head during courtship or territorial displays. - Unlike many seabi...