GULF SHORES, Ala. - Magnificent Frigates that have invaded Gulf State Park blown in by Hurricane Isaac.. This is a real treat, as the birds are rarely seen inshore and virtually never with more than one or two at a time. Today I counted over 100 in one flock.

They can have a wingspan of up to seven feet and they normally spend their whole lives over water, except when nesting. They live off of seafood, but don't catch their own fish. Instead, they wait for other birds to catch the fish, then they “pop” the other bird, making it drop its fish. The Frigate then grabs the falling fish out of the air.       

The frigates, also known as “Pirate Birds” can sleep on the wing, stay airborne for up to a week at a time, and earned their pirate name by stealing baby chicks of other birds.

These are what is known as a “life bird” because you will be lucky to see just one in your lifetime. Truly an amazing day in Gulf State Park.