The oldest wild bird in the world is widely thought to be the rather remarkable Laysan albatross known as Wisdom, who lives on the Midway Atoll in the North Pacific Ocean.
Initially ringed by biologist Chandler Robbins in 1956 when she arrived on the island to breed, she is estimated to be an amazing 73 years old.
She could be even older as Laysan albatrosses’ reach reproductive age at the age of five but can take up to 10 years to start breeding.
Whilst albatrosses mate for life, Wisdom is thought to have outlived at least one previous partner and has been joined in recent years by Akeakamaiare, her current mate.
Albatrosses lay just one egg per successful mating season.
Wisdom is thought to have laid as many as 50-60 in her lifetime, and fledged about 35 chicks at least. Super mum!
Although by now she is prob a grandmother or even great-granny.
Every year she migrates back to Midway Atoll and it is estimated she has flown at least 3 million miles.
This article by Debbie Graham was first published by Discover Wildlife on 20 September 2024. Lead Image: A Laysan Albatross with her newly hatched chick. Picture: John Klavitter/US Fish and Wildlife Service.
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