Southern Royal Albatross
Southern Royal Albatross
100
2 weeks ago
Points:
100
The Southern Royal Albatross is one of the world's largest seabirds, rivaling the Wandering Albatross in size and wingspan. It is characterized by its predominantly white plumage with black wingtips. This majestic bird is a master of aerial gliding, spending years at sea before returning to its sub-Antarctic island breeding grounds.
Where to spot
Breeds primarily on Auckland and Campbell Islands of New Zealand, with smaller numbers on Macquarie Island. Ranges widely over the Southern Ocean, circumnavigating the globe.
How to spot
Look for its enormous size and almost entirely white body, with black markings on the outer primary feathers of the upperwing. Observe its magnificent, seemingly effortless soaring flight over the open ocean, rarely flapping its wings. Distinguish from Wandering Albatross by wing pattern and bill markings.
When to spot
Year-round resident. Breeding cycles are biennial, with egg-laying in November-December and chicks fledging the following September-October. Best observed during pelagic trips in the Southern Ocean or, with special permits, at breeding colonies during the austral summer.
Where to spot
Breeds primarily on Auckland and Campbell Islands of New Zealand, with smaller numbers on Macquarie Island. Ranges widely over the Southern Ocean, circumnavigating the globe.
How to spot
Look for its enormous size and almost entirely white body, with black markings on the outer primary feathers of the upperwing. Observe its magnificent, seemingly effortless soaring flight over the open ocean, rarely flapping its wings. Distinguish from Wandering Albatross by wing pattern and bill markings.
When to spot
Year-round resident. Breeding cycles are biennial, with egg-laying in November-December and chicks fledging the following September-October. Best observed during pelagic trips in the Southern Ocean or, with special permits, at breeding colonies during the austral summer.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Young Southern Royal Albatrosses typically spend 5-6 years at sea after fledging, traveling vast distances across the Southern Ocean before returning to land to breed for the first time.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 164 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 2 weeks ago
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