About the Waved Albatross
The waved albatross, also known as Galapagos albatross, is one of three species of the family Diomedeidae that occur in the tropics. When they forage, they follow a straight path to a single site off the coast of Peru, about 1,000 km (620 mi) to the east. During the non-breeding season, these birds reside primarily on the Ecuadorian and Peruvian coasts.
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ID tip
These are medium-sized albatrosses, measuring 80 to 90 cm (31 to 35 in) in length with a wingspan of 220–250 cm (7.2–8.2 ft). They range between 2.7 and 4.0 kg (6.0 and 8.8 lb) in mass, with males averaging significantly heavier than females. They are distinctive for their yellowish-cream neck and head, which contrasts with their mostly brownish bodies. Even more distinctive is the very long, bright yellow bill, which looks disproportionately large in comparison to the relatively small head and long, slender neck.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Waved Albatross lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Colombia, Costa Rica.
When to see the Waved Albatross
Peak activity in July · a variable species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Short-tailed AlbatrossPhoebastria albatrusThe short-tailed albatross is a medium-sized albatross, with a wingspan of 213 to 240 cm (6.99–7.87 ft), a length of 84 to 94 cm (33–37 in) and a body weight that can be 4.3 to 8.5 kg (9.5–18.7 lb).
Laysan AlbatrossPhoebastria immutabilisThe Laysan albatross averages 81 cm (32 in) in length and has a wingspan of 195 to 203 cm (77–80 in).
Black-footed AlbatrossPhoebastria nigripesThe black-footed albatross is a small member of the albatross family (while still large compared to most other seabirds) that has almost all black plumage.
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