Short-tailed Albatross
NameShort-tailed Albatross
Common NameShort-tailed Albatross
Scientific NamePhoebastria albatrus
FamilyDiomedeidae
Wingspan (cm)222.5
Length (cm)89
Weight (g)6400
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white body, tail, and underwing coverts, contrasting with dark brown to black flight feathers on the upperwings and trailing edge of the underwings. The head and nape often show a golden-yellow wash. The bill is large and pink with a blue tip, and the legs are pale pink. Juveniles are entirely dark brown.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea, but at breeding colonies, they produce a variety of grunts, moans, and bill-clapping sounds during courtship and territorial displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound throughout the North Pacific Ocean, breeding primarily on remote islands off Japan, such as Torishima and the Senkaku Islands. They range widely across the North Pacific, from the coasts of Asia to North America.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size and long, narrow wings, White body with dark flight feathers, Yellowish wash on head and nape (adults), Pink bill with a blue tip, Graceful, soaring flight over open ocean
Description
The Short-tailed Albatross is a large, majestic seabird of the North Pacific, known for its impressive wingspan and graceful gliding flight over open ocean. Adults display a striking white body with dark wings and a distinctive yellowish wash on the head and nape. They spend most of their lives at sea, returning to remote islands to breed.
