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Great frigatebird

Great frigatebird

Distinguished by their massive size, long, bent wings, two-pronged forked tails, and largely black plumage, these birds stand out from all other species on Norfolk.

While they hunt for fish at-sea and can snatch seabird chicks from nests, great frigatebirds are referred to as kleptoparasites, and often steal food from other seabirds by chasing and attacking them until they regurgitate their prey.

Scientific name

Fregata minor

Size

Length: 86-100 cm

Wingspan: 205-230 cm

Population

Common

Where to see

Once transient visitors, frigatebirds are best spotted soaring overhead and pursuing birds around their roosts at the Captain Cook monument lookout.

A small pink flower amongst large green leaves.

Looking out over rolling green hills and rocky cliffs against the sea. A wooden fence is in the foreground.

A white circular sign fixed to a wooden guardrail in a lush forrest.

A white circular sign on a wooden post. Lush forest greenery is in the background.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.