One (2002-101) on 15 July 2002, Gulf of Mexico: Green Canyon 640, approx. 119 mi. S of Trinity Island, Isles Dernieres, N 27° 18' 59", W 90° 45' 13" W;
Brian Boone
(ph).
Photo by Brian Boone
One second year male (2008-07) on 26 April 2008 at 12:55 PM, Cameron: 3 mi. W old mouth Mermentau River; Steven W. Cardiff (DLD 9056) and
Donna L. Dittmann
(ph)(*). The same individual was observed about one hour earlier at approximately 11:55 AM flying east along Holly Beach by
Phillip A. Wallace
(ph) and Curtis C. Sorrells. The bird had flagging on the right leg (light green tubing), black tape on the left, but no metal bands or other identification; origin of these markers has not yet been determined.
Photo by Donna Dittmann
One immature (2020-038) on 12 August 2020, Vernon: DeRidder, 3682 Liliedahl Rd.; Donna Sliman (ph, https://
ebird.org/checklist/S72375108). This represents the first accepted inland occurence.
Photo by Donna Sliman
One probable second year bird (1998-63) on 20 Aug 1998, Gulf of Mexico: 61 mi. S of East Timbalier Island, Ewing Banks 826 oil platform, 28o09'48"N, 90o21'31"W. The identification of this ‘brown-colored’ booby was based largely on foot color, which was reported as “dull reddish.” The reporter, who had no prior experience with this species, also noted “creamy white tips to tattered tail feathers.” Although these two characters are suggestive of Red-footed Booby, there were no other details to help eliminate Brown Booby from consideration. The identification of these two species can be very difficult and sunlight through foot webbing can enhance the color due to reflection and visual focus-emphasis on blood vessels. The report of a heavy chisel-shaped bill and size similar to Herring Gull were less suggestive of Red-footed Booby. All but two members believed that this report was not adequate to support identification of what would have represented only the second state record.
One adult (2016-034) on 22 October 2016, Gulf of Mexico: from cruise ship at N26.4518o, W91.0694o. This record went to a Discussion vote at the 2019 Annual Meeting. The description was suggestive for the species (including comments on foot color and facial skin coloration) and the observer reported being experienced with Red-footed Booby. However, given that this would represent just the fourth Louisiana occurrence, the generally rudimentary description and lack of supporting photos (in spite of the bird reportedly being exceptionally close for prolonged periods of time, and despite that the observer did obtain photographs of a Brown Booby during the same trip?) caused most Members to hesitate to endorse the report. Ultimately, only one Member voted to accept.