Magnificent Frigatebird
Image: Mike Brady (cc-by)
NameMagnificent Frigatebird
Common NameMagnificent Frigatebird
Scientific NameFregata magnificens
FamilyFregatidae
Wingspan (cm)220
Length (cm)100
Weight (g)1300
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a distinctive inflatable red gular pouch on the throat, prominently displayed during courtship. Females are similar but have a white chest and often a white patch on the throat, lacking the red pouch. Juveniles have a white head and underparts.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies. During courtship and nesting, they produce various clattering, drumming, whistling, and gurgling sounds, especially the males with their gular pouch.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, tropical islands, open ocean
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, and along the Pacific coast of the Americas from Mexico south to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.
Identifying Featureslarge size, long, narrow, pointed wings, deeply forked tail, glossy black plumage (males), inflatable red gular pouch (males), distinctive soaring flight, long, hooked bill
Description
This large seabird is characterized by its glossy black plumage, long pointed wings, and deeply forked tail. Males display a striking inflatable red gular pouch during breeding season. They are masters of aerial soaring, spending much of their lives over the open ocean.
