Photo credit: Michael Double
The Wandering Albatross, Diomedea exulans, is classified as ‘VULNERABLE’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™. It is one of the largest birds in the world with a wingspan of 2.5 – 3.35 meters. They spend a large amount of time in flight, soaring over the southern oceans – one bird was recorded to have travelled 6000 km in just 12 days.
The main threat to the Wandering Albatross is incidental mortality when birds are caught on fishing hooks set on longlines by boats in the tuna and Patagonian toothfish industries. Individuals get trapped on the hooks, whilst trying to steal fish and squid bait, and often drown when snared and pulled underwater.
The majority of Wandering Albatross breeding sites are protected within reserves. Adoption of mitigation measures in some areas, coupled with the relocation of other fisheries away from foraging grounds, are very positive steps for conservation but have yet to lead to signs of recovery in most populations. Widespread adoption of mitigation measures in longline fishing practices and ongoing monitoring will be required in order to safeguard the future of these albatrosses.
Geographic Range of the Wandering Albatross
Credit: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
To learn more about the Wandering Albatross, click here. Or visit the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species by clicking their logo below.