Flying fish of Barbados

Flying fish is common to most tropical seas. The warm waters surrounding Barbados are abundant in silvery blue flying fish and hence the island is referred to as “The Land of The flying fish”.

The remarkable feature of this fish is its ability to "fly"! Actually, the fish don't "fly" ... they glide through the air up to distances of 30-40 meters. Just before takeoff, the fish swims quickly towards the surface, bursting into the air at speeds of 55 kmph.

Flying fish can easily be identified by their huge flying fins and lopsided tails. Flying fish have forked tails, and the lower part of the tail is much longer and larger than the upper - thus giving a lopsided appearance.

Once it is airborne, the fish spreads its large pectoral fins and appears to be "flying". This ability helps the fish to escape from predators.

They are one of the main catches for the fishermen and are caught by gill net. The flying fish is one of the national dishes of Barbados, most popular among the Bajans.