MASKED BOOBY
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Sula dactylatra personata


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  During their breeding season from January to June, Masked Boobies return to the NWHI and lay their eggs.  Usually, two eggs are laid, but only one chick is raised.

  To keep cool, boobies vibrate a part of their throats rapidly.  This is called gular flutter.

  When searching for food, Masked Boobies fly low over the ocean surface, but they also will dive from great heights to try to catch fish and squid.

  Fully grown Masked Boobies have wingspans around 1.5 cm (62 in).

Masked Booby Links
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Photo by Monte Costa