Black-browed Albatross

Overview

The Black-browed Albatross is a large, widespread seabird and the most common member of the albatross family. It is easily recognized by the distinctive dark, eyebrow-like streak of feathers extending through its eye, which contrasts with its otherwise white head.

Distribution & habitat

This species is circumpolar, inhabiting the southern oceans and breeding on various sub-Antarctic islands, including the Falklands, South Georgia, and sites across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. While primarily pelagic, these birds frequently forage over shelf and shelf-break areas and may move closer to shore during severe weather.

Appearance

Adults possess a white head and body with dark grey to blackish upperwings and a white central stripe on the underwing. They feature a heavy, hooked yellow bill with a pinkish tip. Their wingspan is impressive, typically ranging between 210 and 250 cm, which supports their efficient, gliding flight style.

Biology & behavior

These long-lived birds are known to survive for over 50 years. They are highly adapted to life at sea, possessing specialized nasal structures that allow them to drink seawater by filtering out salt. They are monogamous and often mate for life, engaging in complex social behaviors such as mutualistic feeding and allopreening.

Feeding

They hunt for fish, squid, and crustaceans, often scanning the water from heights of 15 to 20 meters. They are known to travel vast distances across the southern oceans to locate food, sometimes utilizing major currents to assist their foraging efforts.

Reproduction

Breeding occurs on islands, where pairs construct solid, pillar-like nests made of mud, guano, and other materials. A single egg is laid, and both parents share incubation duties. Chicks are fed a nutrient-rich stomach oil before transitioning to solid food.