Lesser frigatebird
Fregata ariel
The lesser frigatebird (Fregata ariel) is a seabird of the frigatebird family Fregatidae.
About the Lesser frigatebird
The lesser frigatebird (Fregata ariel) is a seabird of the frigatebird family Fregatidae. Around 75 cm (30 in) in length, it is the smallest species of frigatebird. It occurs over tropical and subtropical waters across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, as well as off the Atlantic coast of Brazil. The lesser frigatebird is a lightly built seabird with brownish-black plumage, long, narrow wings, and a deeply forked tail. The male has a striking red gular sac, which he inflates to attract a mate. The female is slightly larger than the male and has a white breast and belly. Frigatebirds feed on fish taken in flight from the ocean's surface (often flying fish), and sometimes indulge in kleptoparasitism, harassing other birds to force them to regurgitate their food.
Fun Facts About Lesser frigatebird
- Around 75 cm (30 in) in length, it is the smallest species of frigatebird.
- The male has a striking red gular sac, which he inflates to attract a mate.
- The lesser frigatebird is a lightly built seabird with brownish-black plumage, long, narrow wings, and a deeply forked tail.
- The female is slightly larger than the male and has a white breast and belly.
Conservation Status
The Lesser frigatebird is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Frigatebirds |
| Genus | Fregata |
| Species | Fregata ariel |
Range & Habitat
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