Birds
Frigatebird
Fregata magnificens, F. minorConservation statusLeast Concern
DietFlying fish and squid, and food stolen from boobies
Lifespan30-34 years
Size and weightWingspan over 2 m
A black seabird with long wings and a forked tail. When it looks for a partner, the male blows up a huge red pouch on its throat.
Red throat pouch
What makes it specialIt can stay in the air for up to two months without stopping. It sleeps while gliding, with half of its brain awake.
Surprising factIts feathers are not waterproof, so it does not land on the sea. Instead, it steals food from other birds.
PopulationTwo species nest in the Galápagos. The magnificent frigatebirds here are a separate group: their genes do not mix with other groups.
In flight over most coastal sites