Scientific Name: Fregata andrewsi
Malay Name: Simbang Pulau Natal
Chinese Name: 白腹军舰鸟
Range:
Breeds on Christmas Island with non-breeder wanders widely across the seas of Southeast Asia to Indochina and south to northern Australia
Taxonomy:
Monotypic.
Size: 92-102 cm
Identification:
Male has overall blackish plumage with contrasting white belly patch and red gular pouch. Female has black hood with white on the rest of underparts and black bar extending from base of forewing to side of breast. Juvenile resembles female but has rufous to brownish white head and black breast-band.
Similar looking species: Lesser Frigatebird
Habitat: Open seas, islets and occasionally stray inland.
Behaviour/Ecology: Typically seen soaring aimlessly in small groups, often following ships.
Local Status: Rare non-breeding visitor.
Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (BirdLife International 2018)
Location: Last sighting was at Straits of Singapore in May 2013. Also sighted at Sungei Buloh and National Stadium.
Photos:
External Links:
Conservation Status: IUCN Red List Page
Photos: Oriental Bird Images
Sound Recordings: xeno-canto Link
Wikipedia Entry: Wikipedia Link
References:
BirdLife International. (2018). Fregata andrewsi. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018. Downloaded on 2 September 2021
Jeyarajasingam, A., & Pearson, A. (2012). A Field Guide to the Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. Oxford University Press.
Robson, C. (2008). A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia. New Holland Publishers.