Short-tailed albatross

Phoebastria albatrus

The Short-tailed albatross is a large seabird with a wingspan of up to 7 feet. It has a white body, with black outer wings and a yellowish head. This species is known for its graceful gliding flight over the open ocean. Short-tailed albatrosses primarily feed on fish, squid, and other marine organisms. They breed on isolated islands in the North Pacific, often on steep cliffs. Historically, this species was heavily impacted by hunting and habitat destruction, leading to a severe population decline. Conservation efforts have helped the population recover, but they still face threats from fishing bycatch and habitat disturbance.

Habitat: Open ocean