Frigatebirds
Frigatebirds
Fregatidae
The Pirates of the Sky: Frigatebirds (Fregatidae) are masters of the air, soaring effortlessly over tropical oceans with their long, forked tails and enormous wingspans—sometimes exceeding 2.3 meters (7.5 feet). Unlike most seabirds, they rarely land on water, as their feathers lack waterproofing, making them almost entirely dependent on the skies. One of their most remarkable traits is kleptoparasitism—stealing food from other birds. With unmatched aerial agility, they harass gulls, boobies, and terns until their victims drop their catch, which the frigatebird swiftly snatches mid-air. This pirate-like behavior, combined with their ability to remain airborne for weeks at a time, makes them some of the most fascinating seabirds. During the breeding season, male frigatebirds put on an unforgettable display, inflating their bright red throat pouches like balloons to attract mates. The Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens) of the Americas and the Great Frigatebird (Fregata minor) of the Pacific are among the most iconic species, patrolling coastlines with an unmistakable silhouette. Though they are formidable fliers, frigatebirds face threats from habitat loss and climate change, which impact their nesting sites. As some of the most efficient aviators on the planet, they remind us of the incredible adaptations birds have evolved to conquer the skies.