Book 31, Question 117 · Video
Why do some seabirds chase others to steal their meals?
Frigatebirds are known for chasing other seabirds in the air until they let go of a fish. The thief then catches the dropped meal before it falls. The behavior is a way to get food with less diving. Skuas and gulls also grab food from others. Scientists call this kleptoparasitism. It doesn’t help the one who lost the meal, but it is a normal part of how some birds find food.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do some seabirds chase others to steal their meals?
The Big Idea
Some seabirds are sneaky thieves! They chase other birds for their meals. Why do they do that?
Frigatebirds
Step one: Frigatebirds. Frigatebirds chase other seabirds in the air until they let go of a fish. Then the thief catches the dropped meal before it hits the water.
Less Diving
Step two: Less Diving. This behavior is a way to get food with less diving. Skuas and gulls also grab food from others.
A Big Word
Step three: A Big Word. Scientists call this kleptoparasitism, which means stealing food. It doesn't help the bird that lost its meal, but it's a normal part of how some birds find food.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Air chaser. Also steals. Grabs food too. Dropped meal.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Frigatebirds have the largest wingspan for their weight of any bird. The scientific word is kleptoparasitism. Dropped fish are caught in midair. Food thieves dive less.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Play a gentle keep-away game with a soft toy. Use an open space with nothing to bump into. Notice how quickly you must change direction. Switch roles. What skills would a seabird need?
Outro
Frigatebirds chase other seabirds until they drop their fish, then catch it in midair, and skuas and gulls steal food too. Scientists call it kleptoparasitism, and it's a way to get food with less diving. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!