Magnificent Frigatebird

Caption on print: Frigate Pelican

This bird was painted in Key West in May, 1832.

"At various times I have ... sailed by mangrove keys where hundreds were roosted, and apparently sound asleep, when, on my firing a gun for the purpose of starting whatever birds might be there, they would all take to wing and sail as beautifully as during day, returning to the trees as the boats proceeded."

"... now the glad bird shakes his pinions; and far up into the air, far beyond the reach of man's unaided eye, he soars in his quiet but rapid flight. ... Would that I could accompany him!"

Reproductions