Albatross

Albatrosses are large seabirds in the family Diomedeidae, within the order Procellariiformes.

Albatrosses are large seabirds of the family Diomedeidae, known for their long-distance gliding flight over open ocean. They spend most of their lives at sea, primarily in the Southern Ocean and North Pacific.

What is an albatross?

Albatrosses belong to the order Procellariiformes, which also includes petrels and shearwaters. They are among the largest seabirds, with long, narrow wings and hooked bills. The wandering albatross is widely cited as having the greatest wingspan of any living bird, exceeding 3 metres. Depending on classification, about 21 to 22 species are recognised in four genera: Diomedea, Thalassarche, Phoebastria, and Phoebetria.

Where do they live and what do they eat?

These birds range widely over oceanic waters, especially in the Southern Ocean and the North Pacific. They typically come ashore only to breed. Their diet consists mainly of squid and fish, supplemented with crustaceans and carrion. Efficient soaring flight lets them travel vast distances with minimal flapping.

Conservation status and Canadian connection

Many albatross species are threatened, largely due to longline fishing bycatch and other human impacts. Population declines are a major conservation concern. For Canadian readers, North Pacific species may occur along the Pacific coast and in broader North Pacific ecosystems, making these seabirds relevant to local marine biodiversity.