Rising Tide Images
Thief
The great frigatebird often obtains a meal by harassing other seabirds in flight until they drop or disgorge their catch. This magnificent aerialist then catches the falling meal. I’ve also seen them dip fish from the surface of the water, however, their feathers are minimally waterproof unlike other seabird so they don’t dive or land on the water surface. Additionally, their vestigial legs are insufficient for a running takeoff from water. It is estimated frigatebirds spend up to 90% of their life in the air, even sleeping aloft. Their seven foot, high aspect ratio wing span allows them to easily circle in thermal or orographic updrafts, gaining altitude without flapping. The Hawaiian name, ‘iwa; means thief. This female frigatebird was patrolling the Kaiwi coast.
Thief
The great frigatebird often obtains a meal by harassing other seabirds in flight until they drop or disgorge their catch. This magnificent aerialist then catches the falling meal. I’ve also seen them dip fish from the surface of the water, however, their feathers are minimally waterproof unlike other seabird so they don’t dive or land on the water surface. Additionally, their vestigial legs are insufficient for a running takeoff from water. It is estimated frigatebirds spend up to 90% of their life in the air, even sleeping aloft. Their seven foot, high aspect ratio wing span allows them to easily circle in thermal or orographic updrafts, gaining altitude without flapping. The Hawaiian name, ‘iwa; means thief. This female frigatebird was patrolling the Kaiwi coast.