Albatross

Albatrosses are among the largest flying birds, with some species having wingspans over three meters. They spend most of their lives at sea, feeding on marine life and grooming in flight. Young albatrosses may not touch land for years, but they return to breed. The largest colony is on Steeple Jason Island, where thousands return annually to nest. Albatrosses form lifelong pairs, with one parent guarding the nest while the other forages. Over their lifetime, they can fly millions of kilometers, enough to circle the Earth over 100 times.

What allows albatrosses to travel such long distances?

• Their large wingspan and use of updrafts

• Their ability to swim long distances

• Their strong sense of direction

• Their lightweight bodies

What do albatrosses primarily feed on while at sea?

• Coral and algae

• Seaweed and plankton

• Fish, squid, and krill

• Small birds and insects

How long can a young albatross stay at sea before returning to land?

• A few months

• Several years

• A few weeks

• A decade

Where is the largest albatross colony located?

• Hawaii

• Steeple Jason Island in the Falklands

• New Zealand

• Galapagos Islands

What is unique about the relationships formed by albatrosses?

• They do not form any bonds

• They pair up for life

• They form temporary bonds for each breeding season

• They change partners every year