About Anous albivitta (Bonaparte, 1856)
Size and Morphometrics
The grey noddy (scientific name Anous albivitta (Bonaparte, 1856)) measures 28–31 cm (11–12 in) in length, has a wingspan of 46–60 cm (18–24 in), and weighs approximately 75 grams (2.6 oz). It has a fairly long, notched tail.
Adult Plumage
Its plumage is pale grey, almost white on the head and underparts, and darker on the back, tail and wings. The wings have dark tips and a white hind edge, and are mainly white on the underside.
Head Features
The eye is black and appears large because of a black patch positioned in front of it; there is also a white patch behind the eye. Its thin, pointed bill is black, and its legs and feet are also black, except for pale yellow webs.
Juvenile Plumage
Juvenile grey noddies are browner than adult birds, and have darker, more contrasting flight feathers.
Vocalizations
The species is usually silent, but produces a soft, purring call.
General Distribution Range
This species occurs in subtropical and warm temperate waters of the south Pacific Ocean.
Subspecies Breeding Ranges
Three subspecies have distinct breeding and distribution ranges: the nominate subspecies A. a. albivitta breeds on Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, northern New Zealand (particularly the Kermadec Islands), and southern Tonga (on 'Ata and probably 'Eua); A. a. skottsbergii is found on Henderson Island, Easter Island and Sala y Gómez; and A. a. imitatrix breeds on the Desventuradas Islands off the coast of Chile.
Additional Occurrence Records
Additional specimens have also been recorded in Australia, the Pitcairn Islands, San Abrosio and San Feliz Islands, and the Ellice Islands.
