Wandering Albatross
Image: Andres de Miguel (cc-by-nc)
NameWandering Albatross
Common NameWandering Albatross
Scientific NameDiomedea exulans
FamilyDiomedeidae
Wingspan (cm)310
Length (cm)118
Weight (g)8500
Plumage DetailsAdults are predominantly white-bodied with dark upperwings that have black primary feathers and dark tips on the secondary feathers, creating a dark trailing edge. The amount of dark plumage on the wings decreases with age, with older males becoming almost entirely white. Juveniles are initially dark brown, gradually lightening over several years.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea, but at breeding colonies, they produce a variety of grunts, groans, hisses, and bill-clapping sounds during courtship and territorial displays.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsopen ocean, sub-Antarctic islands
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeCircumpolar in the Southern Ocean, ranging from the Antarctic ice edge north to approximately 30°S. Breeding colonies are found on remote sub-Antarctic islands such as South Georgia, Crozet Islands, Kerguelen Islands, and Macquarie Island.
Identifying Featureslargest wingspan of any bird, predominantly white body (adults), dark upperwings with white leading edge, long, narrow wings for dynamic soaring, large pinkish bill with a yellow tip
Description
The Wandering Albatross is one of the largest flying birds, renowned for its immense wingspan and ability to glide effortlessly over vast expanses of the open ocean. It spends most of its life at sea, only returning to remote sub-Antarctic islands to breed.
