Fregata aquila
The Ascension Frigatebird, *Fregata aquila*, is a striking and critically endangered seabird endemic to the remote Ascension Island in the South Atlantic. These magnificent aerialists boast a wingspan of up to 2.2 meters (7.2 feet) and a body length of 89-96 cm (35-38 inches), with a body mass typically ranging from 1.2 to 1.5 kg (2.6-3.3 lbs). Males are entirely glossy black, except for a spectacular, inflatable scarlet gular pouch displayed during courtship. Females are larger and distingui...
Ascension Frigatebirds are pelagic seabirds, spending most of their lives soaring over the open ocean but requiring offshore, predator-free islands and islets for breeding and roosting.
Their diet primarily consists of fish (especially flying fish), squid, and sometimes the chicks of other seabirds, often acquired through kleptoparasitism or by surface-skimming.
These frigatebirds are largely diurnal, spending countless hours effortlessly gliding high above the ocean currents, only returning to land for roosting and breeding. They are highly specialized foragers, primarily engaging in kleptoparasitism, snatching food directly from other seabirds in mid-a...
The Ascension Frigatebird's breeding range is highly restricted, exclusively occurring on Ascension Island and its satellite islet, Boatswain Bird Island, in the South Atlantic Ocean. Historically, they bred on the main island, but feral cats forced the entire population onto the inaccessible Boa...
Critically Endangered
- The Ascension Frigatebird has the largest wing-to-body weight ratio of any bird, allowing for unparalleled aerial agility and soaring efficiency. - They are often called 'Man-of-War' birds due to their piratical behavior of stealing food from other seabirds. - Unlike most seabirds, their feathe...