Why in news
Recent research highlights the impact of kleptoparasitism (food theft) among seabirds, specifically skuas, frigatebirds, and gulls, in the context of a new, lethal strain of avian flu (HPAI H5N1).
This behavior increases the risk of spreading the virus among seabird populations, leading to significant mortality
Skuas
Skuas are a group of predatory seabirds with seven species forming the genus Stercorarius
Also known by the name jaegers
Strong, aggressive birds known for stealing food from other seabirds.
Notable for their long migratory patterns and ability to cover vast distances.
Skuas nest on the ground in temperate, Antarctic, and Arctic regions
IUCN Status: Least Concerned
Frigatebirds
Frigatebirds are a family of seabirds called Fregatidae which are found across all tropical and subtropical oceans.
The five extant species are classified in a single genus, Fregata.
All have predominantly black plumage, long, deeply forked tails and long hooked bills.
Females have white underbellies and males have a distinctive red gular pouch, which they inflate during the breeding season to attract females.
IUCN status
Great Frigatebird - Least concern
Lesser Frigatebird - Least concern
Magnificent Frigatebird - Least concern
Ascension Frigatebird - Vulnerable
Christmas Island Frigatebird - Vulnerable
Gulls
The most common usage of the term "seagull" refers to any of the various species of seabirds in the family Laridae.
These birds are typically found near the coast.
They feed on fish, crustaceans, and other marine life.
Seagulls are medium-sized birds with long wings and a distinctive white body with grey wings.
They have a hooked beak that they use to tear at food, and they have webbed feet that help them to swim.
Seagulls are social birds that often live in large colonies
They are also very vocal birds, making a variety of different sounds, including squawks, caws, and meows.
They help to control populations of fish and other marine life, and they also play a role in the decomposition of dead animals.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern.
Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) of 1972
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