The frigatebird features the largest wingspan to weight ratio of any bird and this gives them exceptional ability in the air. They are skilled, acrobatic fliers. They frequently followed our boat, perching at times on the masts or the rigging. There are two species of frigatebird on the Galápagos, the other being the Great Frigatebird (Fregata minor), a more pelagic bird than the Magnificent.

Frigatebirds feed on fish which they catch or steal from other birds as well as small crustaceans and newly-hatched green turtles. They may be observed stealing from other birds (particularly boobies and tropicbirds) in flight. The frigates will throw their victims off balance causing them to drop their catch which is then caught in mid-air by the speedy frigate. I also watched them stealing from brown pelicans which were feeding on the scraps thrown overboard by fishermen cleaning their catch.

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