Bird Description

Uncommon and local breeder that often travels further afield. Often nests and roosts communally. A huge and prehistoric-looking aerial specialist that hangs in the sky with the ability to drift over large areas, apparently without effort. Catches fish and is piratic, stealing from others. ID: Long and slim with deeply forked tail and long, hooked bill. Deep wingbeats with wings that look too long relative to slight body. Adult male (5+ years): appears all black. Bright red throat sac (incredible in display), often difficult to see. Adult female and imms: all have white on breast with variable shape (see plates). Other frigatebirds have been recorded -study size, shape and extent of white on underparts and presence of covert patch on upperwing in adult males.