The family Phaethontidae consists of seabirds commonly known as tropicbirds, characterized by their slender bodies, long tail feathers, and predominantly white plumage with striking black and red markings. They are highly adapted for life over tropical oceans, where they feed primarily on fish and squid, often diving from great heights to catch prey. Tropicbirds are strong fliers and are known for their graceful aerial displays. They typically nest on remote islands, laying a single egg in simple ground scrapes or cliff ledges. Despite their specialized lifestyle, Phaethontidae are considered relatively stable in population, though some species face threats from habitat disturbance and introduced predators.