The Great Frigatebird breeds on small, remote tropical and sub-tropical islands, in mangroves or bushes and occasionally on bare ground (del Hoyo et al. 1992). Fish, squid and chicks of other bird species (e.g. Sooty Terns) have all been identified as prey (Weimerskirch et al. 2004). It is frequently observed attempting to steal food from other bird species (Vickery and Brooke 1994). However, this behaviour represents a minor source of energy intake (Vickery and Brooke 1994, Weimerskirch et al. 2004), and individuals are frequently observed foraging at the coast or inland at most breeding sites (Weimerskirch et al. 2004).

Major breeding populations of the Great Frigatebird are found in tropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Ocean, as well as one population in the South Atlantic (Trinidade and Martim Vaz, Brazil). It is predominately sedentary, with immature and non-breeding individuals dispersing throughout the tropical seas with the exception of the east and central Atlantic.