Great frigatebird and blue-footed booby
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Great frigatebird and blue-footed booby
Great frigatebird (Fregata minor ridgwayi) female harrassing a blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii excisa, in water) to force it to regurgitate its food. This is known as kleptoparasitism. Boobies and frigatebirds are both seabirds that feed on fish. Boobies do so by diving, but frigatebirds skim the surface to catch their food, or rob other seabirds of their prey. Photographed in the Galapagos Islands
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Media ID 6308871
© BOB GIBBONS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Animal Behaviour Attack Attacking Bird Birds Defence Defending Flying Galapagos Islands Ornithological Ornithology Pacific Piscivore Piscivorous Prey Sea Bird Stealing Swimming Tropic Tropics Wing Wings Booby Fregata Minor Ridgwayi Frigate Bird Great Frigatebird Harassing Harassment Kleptoparasitism
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a dramatic moment in the wild, showcasing the fascinating behavior of two seabird species - the Great frigatebird and the blue-footed booby. In this intense encounter, a female Great frigatebird (Fregata minor ridgwayi) can be seen harassing a blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii excisa) in the water, employing a clever strategy known as kleptoparasitism. Kleptoparasitism refers to the act of stealing food from other animals, and here we witness its occurrence firsthand. As both these seabirds rely on fish for sustenance, they compete for resources in their oceanic habitat. While boobies dive into the depths to catch their prey, frigatebirds possess an alternative approach - they skim across the water's surface or snatch food directly from fellow birds. The Galapagos Islands serve as an ideal backdrop for this extraordinary display of animal behavior. The crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life provide an ample feeding ground for these piscivorous creatures. With wings outstretched against a breathtaking oceanic vista, our feathered subjects showcase not only their physical prowess but also highlight nature's intricate web of survival strategies. This remarkable photograph offers us a glimpse into avian biology and zoological dynamics within tropical ecosystems. It reminds us that even amidst serene island landscapes, fierce competition exists among wildlife seeking to secure their next meal. Through Science Photo Library's lens, we are transported into this
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