Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens)

Identification & Behavior: ~85.3 cm (33.8 in). The Magnificent Frigatebird has very long, pointy black wings, a deeply forked tail, and a unique shape in flight. Adult males are black, adult females have a black head (hood) and a white belly. Juveniles have a white head and white belly with dark broken bands across the belly. Very similar to Great Frigatebird.

Status: The Magnificent Frigatebird is largely restricted to the warm ocean waters of extreme northwest Peru (Departments of Tumbes and Piura). It expands southward particularly during ‘El Niño events. It also occurs in Co, and Ec.

Name in Spanish: Ave Fragata Magnifica.

Sub-species: Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens) Mathews, 1914.

Meaning of Name:  Fregata: French mariner’s name; for the swift and rapacious habits of frigatebirds. magnificent: Splendid.

See more of the Family Fregatidae