Browse the database

Recently Viewed

Aves - Neognathae - Pelecaniformes - Fregatidae - Fregata - Fregata magnificens

Mandible (Jawbone ) of a Fregata magnificens (Magnificent Frigatebird)


Rotate: left click on mouse
Zoom: right click on mouse (PC) or command and click (Mac)
Move: left and right click simultaneously (PC) or shift and click (Mac)

Species Description
The Magnificent Frigatebird is an acrobatic seabird that only come to land to breed. It captures fish and squid by skimming them from the surface of the water with its hooked beak but is also known for harassing other birds into dropping their food which the Frigatebird will then catch in the air. It is the only sexually dimorphic species of seabird. During the breeding season the males will find a suitable nest site from which they perform elaborate displays to attract females. The males have a bright red throat pouch that they blow up with air like a balloon. They then tilt their heads back, make clacking noises with their beaks, vibrate their outstretched wings and wave their throat pouches while the females fly overhead. Females usually lay only one egg. The eggs take 50 days to hatch and both parents take turns feeding the nestling until is 12 weeks old at which time the male leaves. The female will continue to feed and care for the young for up to a year after hatching.
Skeletal Elements Available

Mandible (Jawbone )

Right Tarsometatarsus (Right Fused Element Consisting of Ankle and Middle Foot Bones)

Left Humerus (Left Upper Arm Bone)

Right Humerus (Right Upper Arm Bone)

Left Tarsometatarsus (Left Fused Element Consisting of Ankle and Middle Foot Bones)

Sternum (Breast Bone)
External Links
Animal Diversity Web
Encyclopedia of Life
Inetrnet Bird Collection
Wikipedia

© 2024 - Aves 3D • In partnership with:     College of the Holy Cross     Harvard University     National Science Foundation     • Contact Us