Frigatebirds (Family Fregatidae) are large seabirds that spend much of their time at sea (they are therefore referred to as pelagic). Their range includes tropical and subtropical oceans and they nest on remote islands or coastal mangrove forests. Frigatebirds have predominantly iridescent black plumage, long narrow wings, and a forked tail.
Males have a large, bright red gular pouch (located on the front of their throat) that they use in courtship display. The male frigatbirds assemble in a group and each inflates its gular pouch and points its bill upwards. When a female flies over the group of males, they pat their bill against the pouch to make a thumping noise. When this display is successful, the female lands next to the selected mate. Frigatebirds form monogomas pairs each season.
Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Pelicaniformes
- Family: Fregatidae
The Family Fregatidae contains the following subgroups:- Genus: Fregata
- Species: Christmas Island frigatebird (Fregata andrewsi)
- Species: Ascension frigatebird (Fregata aquila)
- Species: Lesser frigatebird (Fregata ariel)
- Species: Magnificent frigatebird (Fregata magnificens)
- Species: Great frigatebird (Fregata minor)
- Genus: Fregata
Where to See
Tropical and subtropical oceans, oceanic islands, coastal mangrove forests.
References
- Burnie D, Wilson DE. 2001. Animal. London: Dorling Kindersley. 624 p.
- Howard L. 2003. Family Fregatidae, Animal Diversity Web. June 18, 2006.
- Rothman R. Frigatebirds. TheGalapagos Islands. June 18, 2006.
