The lesser frigatebird is a seabird of the frigatebird family Fregatidae. At 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.
Region
Indo-Pacific tropics
Typical Environment
Occurs widely over tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, ranging far offshore over pelagic waters. Breeds colonially on remote oceanic islands, often where there are shrubs, trees, or low vegetation suitable for nesting. Forages above open seas, convergence zones, and near schools of predatory fish that drive prey to the surface. It is an occasional visitor to the tropical Atlantic off Brazil. Generally avoids high latitudes and remains associated with warm waters.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Lesser frigatebirds are master aerialists that can remain aloft for days, rarely landing on the water because their plumage is not well waterproofed. Males display an inflatable red gular sac during courtship, performing rattling calls and wing-spreading displays. They often practice kleptoparasitism, harassing other seabirds to force them to drop prey. Parents provide prolonged care to a single chick, sometimes for over a year.
Fregata ariel - MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Breeds in dense colonies on oceanic islands, typically nesting in bushes or low trees. Pairs form for the season and attend a single egg, with an exceptionally long chick-rearing period. Away from colonies they are mostly solitary or loosely associated in feeding aggregations. Courtship involves aerial displays, bill-rattling, and the male’s gular sac inflation.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Usually silent at sea, but vocal at colonies. Calls include rattles, chatters, and drumming sounds associated with displays, along with low croaks and whistles. Females and juveniles give harsher chatter during interactions at the nest.
