Everything but the distinctive tail . . .

. . .   the Red-tailed Tropicbirds were flying today along the coast - as they had been yesterday - the most I've seen in a while.   This one is coming in for a landing right in front of me.   It landed under a sheltering canopy and remains there, about 3 meters to my left, eyes closed resting.   I'm torn between remaining for its protection as it is very visible from the pullout, or assuming that people will be as thrilled as I am and leave it alone.   This one has its adult colours, but its wings look a little tattered.  It is probably the closest I've been to one yet.  Extraordinary birds!