A massive seabird with the largest wingspan-to-body-weight ratio of any bird. Males display brilliant red throat sac in breeding season.

Native status: Native; widespread in tropical Atlantic and Pacific

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 89–114 cm (35–45 in); wingspan 2.2–2.4 m
Weight1.1–1.6 kg (2.4–3.5 lb)
LifespanWild 20+ years
OrderSuliformes
FamilyFregatidae

§ Encyclopedia

The magnificent frigatebird, frigate petrel or man o' war is a seabird of the frigatebird family Fregatidae. With a length of 89–114 centimetres and wingspan of 2.17–2.44 m, it is the largest species of frigatebird. It occurs over tropical and subtropical waters off America, between northern Mexico and Peru on the Pacific coast and between Florida and southern Brazil along the Atlantic coast. There are also populations on the Galápagos Islands in the Pacific and the Cape Verde islands in the Atlantic. It is one of the fastest birds in the world, flying at speeds of up to 153 kilometres (95 mi) per hour.

Source: Wikipedia — Magnificent frigatebird Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive black seabird with deeply forked tail. Males have bright red throat sac in breeding.

Similar species. Other frigatebird species (different ranges).

Voice. Generally silent; chitters during courtship.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Fish caught at the water surface; sometimes steals from other seabirds.

Behavior. Can stay airborne for weeks. Among the most aerial of seabirds.

§ Range

Tropical Atlantic and Pacific waters

§ Habitat

Coastal Florida, Gulf Coast, Caribbean

§ Threats

Coastal habitat loss, climate change.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the magnificent frigatebird is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support coastal protection. Reduce plastic pollution.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab — All About Birds
  • National Audubon Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2018