Magnificent Frigate

Isabela Island, Galapagos, Ecuador (2005). Frigate birds are a very common sight in the Galapagos Islands, both in flight and nesting on land. Is difficult to say whether these are magnificent or minor frigates. Both species look alike and both are present in these islands. Juveniles have white head and neck, females are mostly black and the males have a scarlet throat pouch which is inflated like a balloon in the breeding season. They are big: 100 cm (39 inches) long with a 215 cm (85 inch) wingspan for the magnificent species.