In The Wine Dark Sea, the Captain and the Doctor
discuss the structural reasons for the flying skill of the frigate bird
(Fregata magnificens, aver. length 40 in., aver. wgt. 3 lbs.).
Although frigate birds fly far out to sea, they stay near their home islands.
Their feathers are not waterproof, so they rarely, if ever, land on the
sea. They spend their time in the air, hunting for flying fish.
Their flying skills are so advanced that they can attack other sea birds
in the air, forcing them to regurgitate their catches. The frigate
birds are then able to dive below and retrieve the food before it falls
into the sea. Their large wingspan (over 7 feet) enables them to
ride the wind without effort, but makes it difficult for them to land.
Now it is time to see some animals
from under the water.