486 



COLOR OF THE FRIGATE BIRD. 



aiid bushes where the low shores afibrd no cliffs, but its usual locality 

 for breeding is on the summit of some rocky height. On the rock there 

 is no nest, but when the bird breeds among trees, it makes a rude scaf- 

 folding of sticks like the nest of the wood pigeon. There is only one 

 effg, of a peculiar chalky whiteness, and while sitting the bird is very 

 bold and will not stir even if pushed with a stick, snapping and biting 

 at the obnoxious implement. The voice of this bird is rough and 

 harsh, and is likened to the sound produced by turning a winch. 



The color of the adult Frigate Bird is shining black glossed with 

 green, the female being dull black above and white streaked with cin- 

 namon upon the head, breast, and under parts. The pouch on the 

 throat is scarlet, and when distended has a very curious effect against 

 the dark black of the throat and neck. Including the long tail, the 

 male measures three feet in length, but the body is extremely small. 

 The expanse of the wings is about eight feet. 



