Wisdom, the Remarkable 62-Year-Old Laysan Albatross
Wisdom, a Laysan albatross, is making headlines once again as the world’s oldest known living wild bird. At an astounding 62 years old, she has defied the odds and given birth to a healthy chick on Midway Atoll in the Pacific Ocean[1].
Wisdom was first banded by scientists in 1956 and has since been spotted rearing chicks on numerous occasions. However, her latest feat is particularly remarkable given the average lifespan of a Laysan albatross is only about 30 years[4]. Scientists had previously believed that female albatrosses became infertile later in life, but Wisdom’s story shatters that notion.
“She is an iconic symbol of hope and inspiration for all seabird enthusiasts around the world,” said Beth Flint, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife biologist. “To know that she can still successfully raise young at age 62 is beyond impressive.”
Laysan albatrosses typically form lifelong pair bonds and breed once a year, laying a single egg. Both parents take turns incubating the egg for about 65 days and then share the responsibility of feeding and caring for the chick until it fledges around 165 days after hatching[3].
Wisdom’s remarkable longevity is a testament to the resilience of her species. Albatrosses face numerous threats, including plastic pollution, longline fishing, and invasive species on their nesting grounds[2]. Despite these challenges, Wisdom continues to thrive and contribute to the survival of her species.
As Wisdom’s story spreads, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the incredible adaptability of nature. Wisdom’s chick, like all Laysan albatross chicks, will face its own challenges in the coming years. But with role models like Wisdom leading the way, there is hope for the future of these magnificent seabirds.
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[1] https://sora.unm.edu/sites/default/files/journals/jfo/v046n01/p0001-p0006.pdf
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laysan_albatross
[3] https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Phoebastria_immutabilis/
[4] https://www.birdspot.co.uk/bird-brain/which-birds-live-the-longest
[5] https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Laysan_Albatross/overview
[6] https://lafeber.com/pet-birds/wisdom-the-albatross-love-legacy-at-72/
[7] https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/worlds-oldest-bird-just-turned-70-why-so-special
[8] https://www.bird.bot/guide/laysan-albatross