Ascension Frigatebird

The Ascension frigatebird, a member of the Fregatidae family, is a large, lightly built seabird with predominantly brownish-black plumage. It is distinguished by its deeply forked tail and impressive wingspan of approximately 2 meters (6.6 feet).

Identification Tips

Males are characterized by their striking red gular sac, which they inflate during courtship displays. Their plumage is black with a green metallic sheen on the nape, mantle, and scapulars. Females are slightly larger, with a brown breast-band and, in some cases, a white belly. Both sexes have long, slender, pointed wings and a long hooked bill, which is pale blueish grey. Their eyes are dark brown, encircled by a black ring, and their legs are grey.

Habitat

The Ascension frigatebird breeds on Boatswain Bird Island and Ascension Island, located in the tropical Atlantic Ocean. These islands provide a plateau for nesting and are surrounded by the rich waters of the ocean, which serve as feeding grounds.

Distribution

This species was once found breeding on Ascension Island but was driven to Boatswain Bird Island due to predation by feral cats. After a successful eradication program for the cats, the frigatebirds have begun to return to Ascension Island. They are also known to occur off the coast of West Africa.

Behaviour

Ascension frigatebirds are known for their acrobatic prowess in flight, often seen soaring high above the ocean. They feed primarily on fish, which they snatch from the water's surface, and are also known to engage in kleptoparasitism, harassing other birds to force them to regurgitate their food.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Ascension frigatebird, like those of other frigatebirds, include a variety of rattles, clacks, and whistles, particularly during the breeding season as part of their courtship and territorial displays.

Breeding

The male's red gular sac is a key feature in breeding displays, used to attract females. The species breeds on a plateau on Boatswain Bird Island, with recent recolonization attempts on Ascension Island.

Similar Species

The Ascension frigatebird is most closely related to the magnificent frigatebird, but can be distinguished by its specific plumage characteristics and breeding locations.

Diet and Feeding

Their diet consists mainly of fish, particularly flying fish, which they catch in flight. They are also known to feed on small turtles and engage in kleptoparasitism.

Conservation status

With a breeding population confined to a single small island, the Ascension frigatebird is classified as "Vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the survival of this unique species.