Shy Albatross
NameShy Albatross
Common NameShy Albatross
Scientific NameThalassarche cauta
FamilyDiomedeidae
Wingspan (cm)230
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)4500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, and underparts. The back and upperwings are dark grey, with a white leading edge to the inner wing. A distinctive grey smudge or crescent is present around the eye. The bill is pale yellow with a prominent yellow tip on the upper mandible.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea, Shy Albatrosses become vocal at their breeding colonies, producing braying, groaning, and clattering sounds during courtship rituals and territorial displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds primarily on islands off Tasmania, Australia, and New Zealand. After breeding, they disperse widely across the southern oceans, foraging in waters around Australia, New Zealand, and occasionally reaching South Africa and South America.
Identifying FeaturesWhite head with grey eye smudge, Pale yellow bill with yellow tip, Dark grey upperwings and back, Large size, White underparts
Description
The Shy Albatross is a large pelagic seabird characterized by its striking white head and body, contrasting with dark grey upperwings and back. These birds are renowned for their graceful soaring flight over the open ocean, spending most of their lives at sea and returning to remote islands only to breed.
