High in the canopy of the rainforest, you might not expect to see a creature of the open ocean. But here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the mountains, you have a chance encounter with a fascinating visitor – the Black Noddy (Anous minutus), also known as the White-capped Noddy.

While primarily a bird of the tropics and subtropics, the Black Noddy ventures inland to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, gracing our shores with its sleek silhouette and contrasting black and white plumage. So, keep your eyes peeled during your boat tours or coastal excursions – you might just catch a glimpse of this beautiful seabird.

A Master of the Skies

The Black Noddy is a medium-sized tern, typically measuring 14-15 inches in length. Its most striking feature is the contrasting black body and white cap, giving it a tuxedo-like appearance. The long, pointed wings (wingspan of 26-28 inches) and a slightly forked tail allow for graceful, buoyant flight. The Black Noddy’s sharp black bill is about a third longer than its head, and it has short, red-brown to yellow-brown legs with dull orange or pink webbing.

A Nod to Love

The name “noddy” comes from their unique courtship behavior. During breeding season, these social birds perform a charming display where they bob their heads repeatedly at each other. Black Noddies are known for forming long-lasting, monogamous pairs. They build large, untidy nests on cliff ledges, sea caves, or even tall trees near the coast. Interestingly, Black Noddies typically lay only one egg per clutch. Both parents take turns incubating, feeding, and protecting their chick.

Oceanic Adventurer

Black Noddies are adept at catching fish by plunge-diving from the air or snatching prey near the water’s surface. They are also known to follow schools of tuna and dolphins, taking advantage of the feeding frenzy to snatch up small fish. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot prey from a distance, making them efficient hunters.

Spotting the Black Noddy in Costa Rica

While not as commonly spotted as some resident birds, Black Noddies can be seen along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, particularly near the Gulf of Papagayo and the Osa Peninsula. Boat tours and coastal excursions offer the best chance of encountering these birds. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a sighting of this elegant seabird gracing the Costa Rican skies.

Beyond the Mountains: Black Noddy Conservation

The Black Noddy is currently classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. However, threats like habitat loss, pollution, and competition from invasive species can impact their populations. By supporting sustainable fishing practices and coastal conservation efforts, we can help ensure these beautiful birds continue to grace the oceans and skies of Costa Rica.

So, the next time you’re on a coastal adventure in Costa Rica, remember to look up. You might be surprised by the avian treasures that call our mountains and shores home, even if they seem like visitors from another world.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica