Republic of Nauru. Central Pacific. Nauru is a tiny island (21 square-km). The frigate bird is Nauru's national symbol. Men, as part as an antique custom, catch a flying frigate bird by throwing a lested rope in the air. Caged birds are excited by young men to fly in order to attract new birds. The goal is to cage as many as 31 birds and to achieve the highest honor in the community. © 1999 Didier Ruef