Birdsong field guide
Ascension Frigatebird
Fregata aquila
The Ascension Frigatebird is a large, dark seabird endemic to the Ascension Island territory, distinguished by its extraordinary aerial agility and the male's vibrant red throat pouch.
What it sounds like
Generally silent at sea; on breeding grounds, males produce liquid whinnying, drumming sounds, and rhythmic bill-clattering.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- It is the only frigatebird species where the adult female lacks a white breast, possessing mostly dark plumage similar to the male.
- Breeding is almost entirely restricted to the tiny, 5-hectare Boatswain Bird Island to avoid predation by feral cats on the main Ascension Island.
- Their feathers are not waterproof, preventing them from resting on the ocean surface; they must remain airborne or perch on land.
- They are notorious kleptoparasites, often intercepting boobies in mid-air to steal their food through high-speed pursuit.
- The species has one of the longest parental care periods of any bird, with juveniles remaining dependent on parents for up to a year.
Habitat
Tropical pelagic waters and rocky, volcanic offshore stacks for nesting.
Range
Endemic to Ascension Island and the surrounding tropical South Atlantic Ocean.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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