Frigatebirds [Fregata]

Description

Fregata is the only genus in the family Fregatidae and consists of five species of frigatebirds. These seabirds are known for their large size, forked tails, and the males' distinctive red gular pouch, which is inflated during breeding season as a display to attract females. They possess the largest wingspan to body weight ratio of any bird, allowing them to stay aloft for more than a week without landing. Frigatebirds are excellent fliers and can cover great distances, but they are less adept at swimming and do not walk well, and therefore rarely land on the water. They feed on fish, squid, and jellyfish, often stealing prey from other seabirds in mid-air in acts of kleptoparasitism. Frigatebirds are found across all tropical and subtropical oceans around the world, nesting in colonies on trees or cliffs.

Species

Taxonomy