Royal albatross

These mighty birds have the longest wingspan, second only to wandering albatrosses

JJ Harrison


Royal albatross

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These mighty birds have the longest wingspan, second only to wandering albatrosses

Population 27,200

The royal albatross, with its majestic wingspan and regal demeanor, is a true icon of the Southern Ocean. These magnificent seabirds are renowned for their lifelong monogamous partnerships, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and dedication to their mates. Together, they work tirelessly to raise their chicks, providing them with the care and guidance they need to thrive in the harsh marine environment.

The breeding cycle of royal albatrosses is a testament to their commitment to family life. After carefully selecting a suitable nesting site on remote islands or coastal cliffs, the pair constructs a nest and takes turns incubating the egg until it hatches. Once the chick emerges, both parents participate in feeding and caring for it, ensuring that it receives the nourishment and protection it needs to grow and develop.

For royal albatross chicks, life is indeed privileged compared to many other bird species. With attentive parents who have honed their parenting skills over years of experience, these chicks receive the best possible start in life. From learning to regulate their body temperature to mastering the art of flight, they are guided every step of the way by their devoted parents.

Royal albatrosses are true wanderers of the sea, spending the majority of their lives soaring effortlessly over the open ocean. Their extensive travels take them across vast distances, with the wind serving as their constant companion and ally. While the initial effort required for takeoff may be substantial, once airborne, these birds rely on the wind to carry them on their journey, conserving energy and allowing them to cover immense distances with minimal effort.

Despite their graceful aerial prowess, royal albatrosses face numerous challenges in their oceanic realm. One of the most significant threats comes from fishing activity, where these birds may become entangled in fishing lines or inadvertently consume baited hooks.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Antarctica
2018
Vagrant
Argentina
2018
Australia
2018
Bouvet Island
2018
Seasonality Uncertain
Brazil
2018
Chile
2018
Falkland Islands
2018
Malvinas
French Southern T.
2018
Heard & McDonald
2018
New Caledonia
2018
Vagrant
New Zealand
2018
Saint Helena
2018
Non-Breeding
South Africa
2018
South Georgia
2018
Uruguay
2018
Non-Breeding

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Colony

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No