Magnificent Frigatebird

Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens) is in the Frigatebirds family (Fregatidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 5,777 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in May.

Seasonal pattern in the national data: year-round resident. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.

When to photograph Magnificent Frigatebird: observations by month (U.S.)

About Magnificent Frigatebird

The magnificent frigatebird (Fregata magnificens) is a seabird of the frigatebird family Fregatidae. With a length of 89–114 centimetres (35–45 in) and wingspan of 2.17–2.44 m (7.1–8.0 ft) it is the largest species of frigatebird. It occurs over tropical and subtropical waters off America, between northern Mexico and Ecuador 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...From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.

Magnificent Frigatebird by state

Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.

Photography tips

• Use a fast shutter (1/2000 s or faster) for birds in flight.
• Focus on the eye and shoot at the bird's eye level.
• Approach slowly and stop if the bird changes behavior; never bait or flush birds.
• Morning activity peaks in the first two hours after sunrise.

FAQ