Black Noddy

Overview
Black Noddy: medium-sized tern, very dark brown-black with white cap, white (lower) half-eye ring, and long slender bill. The wedge shaped tail has small notch at tip. Black legs and feet. Strong, swift and fluttering flight. Typically flies close to the surface of the ocean. AKA White-capped Noddy.

Range and Habitat
Black Noddy: Tropical species, rare in North America. A few, mostly immatures, seen in Dry Tortugas among Brown Noddies. Casual to coastal Texas.

INTERESTING FACTS
The Black Noddy is also known as the Hawaiian or White-capped Noddy. The oldest known individual was 25 years old. They typically remain within 50 miles of their breeding colonies year-round. Courtship consists of head nodding and fish transfers. A group of noddys are collectively known as an "affirmation", "niddle", and "sleepiness" of noddys.