Laysan Albatross

The Laysan albatross, Phoebastria immutabilis, is a majestic seabird of the North Pacific, predominantly found in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This species, named after one of its breeding colonies on Laysan Island, is the second-most common seabird in the Hawaiian archipelago. With a population estimated at 1.18 million birds, the Laysan albatross is a small member of its family, resembling a gull in its two-toned plumage with a dark gray mantle and wings contrasted by a white underside and head.

Identification Tips

Adult Laysan albatrosses average 81 cm in length with a wingspan of 195 to 203 cm. Males are larger than females, weighing between 2.4 to 4.1 kg, while females weigh between 1.9 to 3.6 kg. They exhibit blackish-gray upperwing, mantle, back, upper rump, and tail, with a white head, lower rump, and underparts. A distinctive black smudge encircles the eye, and the bill is pink with a dark tip. Juveniles can be recognized by their gray bill and dark upper rump. Unlike some species, the Laysan albatross does not have a breeding plumage.

Habitat

The Laysan albatross is an oceanic bird that nests on small islands and atolls, often in large colonies. It prefers sandy beaches and grassy areas for nesting.

Distribution

This albatross has a wide range across the North Pacific, with 99.7% of its breeding population residing in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, especially on Midway and Laysan. Smaller populations are found on the Bonin Islands near Japan and on islands off Mexico, such as Guadalupe Island.

Behaviour

The Laysan albatross is typically silent but may occasionally emit "moo"-ing sounds, descending whinnies, or rattles. They are known for their lifelong pair bonds and cooperative chick-rearing. Wisdom, a female Laysan albatross, is the oldest known wild bird, estimated to be over 70 years old.

Song & Calls

While generally silent, the Laysan albatross can produce a variety of sounds, particularly during the breeding season.

Breeding

Laysan albatrosses are colonial nesters, with a protracted breeding cycle. They breed annually, though some may skip years. The breeding season in the Hawaiian Islands typically spans from November to July. Courtship involves elaborate dances with up to 25 ritualized movements. The single egg laid is buff-white, sometimes spotted, and incubation lasts about 65 days.

Similar Species

The Laysan albatross can be distinguished from the black-footed albatross by its two-toned plumage and from the rare short-tailed albatross by its all-dark back and smaller size.

Diet and Feeding

Their diet consists mainly of cephalopods, supplemented by fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.

Conservation status

The IUCN classifies the Laysan albatross as Near Threatened. While populations may be rebounding, they have not fully recovered from historical hunting and habitat threats. Conservation efforts are ongoing, particularly on Midway Atoll, where lead poisoning from old buildings has been a significant issue.