This wonderfully peculiar birds are called Black Skimmers. I wouldn't say they are rare, but definitely uncommon. They are always found in large groups. They are most active when they feed at dawn or dusk. They usually roost on the beach. I've never seen them far inland. I did once see them nesting on the gravel roof of a motel though. But that was the only time I ever saw Black Skimmers anywhere but the beach.
Black Skimmers feed in an unusual manner. They fly very quickly very close to the surface of the water, using their unusual beaks to eat whatever it is they eat. I suppose that would be small fish from the water, but it may include small insects that are near the surface of the water. Though one doesn't see many insects like that in saltwater.
This photo was taken at The North Beach Park in downtown St Petersburg Florida which overlooks Tampa Bay at Dusk. The twilight made it a difficult shot. |
