Lesser Frigatebird
NameLesser Frigatebird
Common NameLesser Frigatebird
Scientific NameFregata ariel
FamilyFregatidae
Wingspan (cm)185
Length (cm)76
Weight (g)790
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a distinctive inflatable red gular pouch and a white patch on the flanks, visible under the wing. Females have a black head and neck, a white breast and belly, and a red orbital ring. Juveniles have a white head and underparts.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies. At colonies, males produce drumming sounds with their gular pouch, along with various clattering, whistling, and gurgling calls during courtship and territorial displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical and subtropical oceans of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, with some populations in the South Atlantic.
Identifying FeaturesLong, narrow, angled wings, Deeply forked tail, Male's inflatable red gular pouch, White flank patch on males, Exceptional aerial agility, Kleptoparasitic feeding behavior
Description
The Lesser Frigatebird is a large, dark seabird known for its exceptional aerial agility and long, pointed wings. Males are distinguished by an inflatable red gular pouch, displayed during courtship, and a white flank patch. They are often seen soaring effortlessly over tropical and subtropical oceans.
