Definition

1. Noun:
   • A predatory seabird that chases other birds to force them to disgorge their food: A jaeger is a type of seabird known for its kleptoparasitic behavior, where it harasses other birds (like gulls or terns) until they drop or regurgitate their catch, which the jaeger then steals and eats.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • We spotted a parasitic jaeger pursuing a tern over the open ocean.
  • The skua is a type of large jaeger found in polar regions.

Advanced Usage

• In ornithological contexts: The term is often used specifically for the three smaller species of the genus (parasitic, long-tailed, and pomarine jaegers), distinguishing them from the larger skuas, though "skua" is sometimes used interchangeably for all members of the family.
  • The study focused on the migratory patterns of the long-tailed jaeger.

Variants and Related Words

• Skua (n): A closely related, often larger seabird with similar kleptoparasitic habits; sometimes considered a type of jaeger.
  • The great skua is a formidable predator.

Synonyms

• Kleptoparasite: An animal that steals food from another (a more general biological term).
• Seabird: A bird that lives primarily on or near the sea.

Related Phrases

• To jaeger (rare/obsolete verb): Historically, to hunt or chase in the manner of a jaeger. This usage is extremely rare in modern English.
  • The frigatebird will jaeger the booby for its meal. (This example illustrates the conceptual verb form, though it is not standard contemporary usage.)

Noun

1. rapacious seabird that pursues weaker birds to make them drop their prey