Laysan Albatross
NameLaysan Albatross
Common NameLaysan Albatross
Scientific NamePhoebastria immutabilis
FamilyDiomedeidae
Wingspan (cm)203
Length (cm)81
Weight (g)2500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, rump, and underparts, contrasting sharply with dark brownish-black upperwings, back, and tail. There is a distinctive dark patch around the eye and a pinkish-gray bill with a dark tip.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include various squawks, mews, groans, and bill-clapping, especially during courtship displays at breeding colonies.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound throughout the North Pacific Ocean, breeding primarily on the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, with smaller colonies on islands off Japan and Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesWhite head and body with dark eye patch, Dark brownish-black upperwings, back, and tail, Long, narrow wings adapted for soaring, Pinkish-gray bill with a dark tip
Description
The Laysan Albatross is a large seabird known for its graceful, long-winged flight over the open ocean. It spends most of its life at sea, returning to remote islands to breed. This species is characterized by its striking black and white plumage.
