Bird Guide

Lesser Frigatebird

Fregata ariel

Least ConcernOmnivoreMarinePlatform nestLarge · 804 g

About the Lesser Frigatebird

The lesser frigatebird 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.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The lesser frigatebird is the smallest species of frigatebird and measures 66–81 cm (26–32 in) in length with a wingspan of 155–193 cm (61–76 in) and a long, forked tail. Male birds weight 625–875 g (1.378–1.929 lb). Female birds are heavier and weight 760–955 grams (1.676–2.105 lb). Like all frigatebirds, the male has a large, red sac on the front of the throat, which is inflated during courtship. Courtship display also involves a variety of calls, bill rattling, and spreading of the wings.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Lesser Frigatebird lives

Regular rangeRare visitor

Recorded as a rare visitor in South Africa, United States, New Zealand, South Korea, Brazil, Kuwait, Tuvalu.

When to see the Lesser Frigatebird

Peak activity in October · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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