Seasonal· Barbuda· Leeward Islands

Frigatebird Breeding Season

17° 41.8′ N · 61° 52.0′ W

From September the male magnificent frigatebirds of Codrington Lagoon inflate their scarlet throat pouches, quiver their wings and drum their bills to attract passing females. Chicks follow in nests of twigs balanced on the mangroves.

St Martin, Anguilla & St BarthsAntigua & BarbudaGuadeloupe, Les Saintes & Dominica

Practical

Coordinate verified: the sanctuary position (Wikipedia). Mating starts in September and the season runs to March or April, with December the reported peak (2024 cruiser report). Later in the season, look for white-headed chicks on nests. Birds and juveniles are present year-round. Sanctuary visits only in Barbudan boats from the Codrington wharf; see Codrington Lagoon Frigatebird Sanctuary for fees.

Best for

Time your Barbuda visit for the courtship displays

Season

Sep-Apr; peak around December

Nearby