Cook Islands – Niafou’ou 2016 WWF – Seabirds MNH

Cook Islands – Niafou’ou 2016 ☀ WWF – Seabirds ☀ Mint never hinged (**)

The Cook Islands, located in the South Pacific Ocean, are home to a diverse array of seabird species. These birds play crucial roles in the ecosystem, including nutrient cycling, predator control, and even seed dispersal.

The Cook Islands, located in the South Pacific Ocean, are home to a diverse array of seabird species. These birds play crucial roles in the ecosystem, including nutrient cycling, predator control, and even seed dispersal. Some of the notable seabird species found in the Cook Islands include:

1. Kuhl’s lorikeet (Vini kuhlii): Although not strictly a seabird, this small parrot is native to the Cook Islands and is often found near coastal areas. Its presence adds to the biodiversity of the region.
2. Red-tailed tropicbird (Phaethon rubricauda): Known for its striking appearance with long tail streamers and bright red bill, the red-tailed tropicbird can be found nesting on rocky cliffs and is often spotted soaring over the ocean.
3. White tern (Gygis alba): Also known as the fairy tern, this graceful seabird is famous for its all-white plumage and black eye patch. It nests in trees and shrubs on the islands and feeds by plunge-diving for small fish.
4. Brown booby (Sula leucogaster): This seabird is easily recognizable by its brown plumage and long, pointed wings. Brown boobies can be found nesting in colonies on rocky cliffs and islets throughout the Cook Islands.
5. Great frigatebird (Fregata minor): These large seabirds are known for their impressive aerial displays and distinct silhouette with long, angular wings. Great frigatebirds can often be seen soaring high above the ocean or roosting in trees along the coast.
6. Black noddy (Anous minutus): A common sight around the Cook Islands, the black noddy is a small, dark seabird with a distinctive white cap. It nests in colonies on rocky ledges and feeds primarily on fish and squid.