- Long wings: Frigate birds have long and narrow wings, which enable them to soar efficiently and cover long distances during their flights. Their wingspans can reach up to 2.3 meters (7.5 feet).
- Ability to glide: Frigate birds have a unique adaptation that allows them to glide effortlessly for long periods of time. They can utilize updrafts and thermal air currents to soar without flapping their wings. This adaptation helps them conserve energy during their extended flights over the open ocean.
- Hooked beak and sharp claws: Frigate birds possess a strong, hooked beak that is perfectly suited for catching fish. They also have sharp claws that they use to grasp branches when perching or to capture fish.
- Gular pouch: Male frigate birds have a large, red, inflatable gular pouch on their throats. This pouch is used during courtship displays to attract females and establish dominance among males. The gular pouch can be inflated and deflated at will.
- Keel-shaped tail: Frigate birds have a deeply forked or keel-shaped tail. This unique tail structure enhances their maneuverability and stability during flight, allowing them to make quick turns and changes in direction.
- Salt glands: Frigate birds possess salt glands near their nostrils that help them excrete excess salt from their bodies. This adaptation is particularly important for marine birds that consume large amounts of salty seawater.
- Efficient digestion: Frigate birds have a specialized digestive system that allows them to digest fish quickly and efficiently. This is important because they often need to consume a significant amount of food in a short period of time to meet their energy demands.
- Excellent eyesight: Frigate birds have exceptional eyesight, which is crucial for spotting fish and other prey from high in the sky. They can detect potential food sources from great distances and dive down swiftly to capture them.