Fregatidae

/ˌfrɛɡəˈteɪdiː/ noun

Definition

A family of large seabirds known as frigatebirds, which have long wings and forked tails and are expert fliers found in tropical and subtropical oceans.

Etymology

From Modern Latin Fregatidae, derived from 'frigate' (a type of ship) + the Latin suffix '-idae' (family). The birds were named after frigates because of their swift, predatory hunting style resembling the warship.

Kelly Says

Frigatebirds are the aerial pirates of the ocean—they don't dive for fish but instead chase other birds mid-flight and force them to drop their catch, a behavior called kleptoparasitism that's basically airborne robbery!

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