Sooty Albatross
Sooty Albatross
100
2 weeks ago
Points:
100
Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
The Sooty Albatross is a distinctive, dark-plumaged albatross of the Southern Ocean, known for its elegant, graceful flight in strong winds. It is characterized by its uniform dark brown body, pale head, and a distinctive orange sulcus (groove) on its dark bill. This pelagic species breeds on remote sub-Antarctic islands.
Where to spot
Breeds on sub-Antarctic islands in the South Atlantic (Gough, Tristan da Cunha), Indian (Crozet, Kerguelen, Prince Edward), and Pacific Oceans (Antipodes). Ranges widely across the Southern Ocean.
How to spot
Look for its overall dark sooty-brown plumage, a paler head, and a long, slender black bill with a prominent orange sulcus. Observe its extremely graceful and effortless soaring flight in windy conditions. Requires pelagic trips for observation.
When to spot
Breeding cycles are biennial, with egg-laying in September-October. Best observed during pelagic trips in the Southern Ocean, especially around their breeding islands during the austral summer. Often seen far from land.
Where to spot
Breeds on sub-Antarctic islands in the South Atlantic (Gough, Tristan da Cunha), Indian (Crozet, Kerguelen, Prince Edward), and Pacific Oceans (Antipodes). Ranges widely across the Southern Ocean.
How to spot
Look for its overall dark sooty-brown plumage, a paler head, and a long, slender black bill with a prominent orange sulcus. Observe its extremely graceful and effortless soaring flight in windy conditions. Requires pelagic trips for observation.
When to spot
Breeding cycles are biennial, with egg-laying in September-October. Best observed during pelagic trips in the Southern Ocean, especially around their breeding islands during the austral summer. Often seen far from land.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Sooty Albatrosses are known for their spectacular aerial courtship displays, involving synchronized soaring and plunging through the air.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 3 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 2 weeks ago
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