Discuss FOUR distinctly different methods of prey capture used by seabirds. Include specific examples of seabirds that used each method.

Question 1

Explain how surface feeding is used by seabirds and provide an example of a bird that engages in this type of feeding:

Answer 1

• Prey is captured at the surface of the sea
• Variety of the methods: magnificent frigate bird- snatching, Wilson’s storm petrel “pattering”, skimmer ‘skimming’
• Often occurs in conjunction with predatory fish/mammal activity (e.g. mammals driving fish to the water where birds are able to feed on them

Question 2

Explain pursuit diving and provide an example of a bird that engages in this type of feeding and provide an example:

Answer 2

• Involves underwater pursuit of prey
• Propulsion underwater can be by wings or feet
• This method has greater challenges than surface feeding, but the reward is greater area in which to feed
• E.g. shearwaters, penguins, auks, albatrosses, petrels, cormorants, fulmars

Question 3

Explain plunge diving and provide an example of a bird that engages in this type of feeding:

Answer 3

• Involves plunging into the ocean from high above
• Allows the bird to use the energy from the momentum of the dive to combat natural buoyancy
• Gannets and boobies have a system of air sacs beneath the skin to cushion the impact with the water
• E.g. gannets, boobies, some terns

Question 4

Explain Kleptoparisitism and give an example of a bird that engages in this practice:

Answer 4

• Stealing of prey from other seabirds; used to supplement food obtained from hunting (e.g. frigate birds, skuas)