The wandering albatross is the ultimate ocean wanderer. It spends most of its life flying over the Southern Ocean and comes ashore only to breed.
Interesting facts
- It uses ‘dynamic soaring’, gaining energy from wind differences above the waves.
- A special tendon locks its wings open, saving energy.
- Young albatrosses may spend several years at sea before returning to land.
- Pairs perform elaborate courtship dances.
- It breeds only every two years because chick-rearing takes about a year.
- Longline fishing hooks have killed many albatrosses.
Behaviour
Albatrosses glide low over the waves for long distances, landing on the sea to feed, often at night when squid rise to the surface.
Breeding and young
A single egg is laid in a mound nest and incubated for about 11 weeks; the chick takes about nine months to fledge.
Threats and conservation
Bycatch on longline fishing hooks, invasive predators on breeding islands, plastic pollution and climate change.
Where to see it
- South Georgia (expedition cruises)
- At sea on the Drake Passage and Southern Ocean voyages
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Where to see the wandering albatross
New Zealand Wildlife Guide: Kiwi, Kea, Penguins and WhalesNew Zealand's wildlife evolved in isolation, with birds in place of mammals. Where to see kiwi, kea, penguins,…
Kaikōura Whale Watching GuideA deep ocean canyon brings sperm whales close to shore at Kaikōura year-round. Add dolphins, albatrosses and seals…
Antarctica Cruise Guide: Penguins, Whales and the Drake PassagePenguin colonies, breaching whales and towering icebergs. How to choose the right Antarctic route, month and ship for…
