Laysan albatrosses, known for their long lifespans, have recently been in the news as a remarkable bird named Wisdom was photographed engaging in a mating dance with potential suitors on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. At around 72 years old and recognized by her band number Z333, Wisdom returned for nesting season in late November. Despite her age, she was described as being quite spry and actively courting other birds.
According to Jonathan Plissner, a supervisory wildlife biologist at the national wildlife refuge, female Laysan albatrosses typically lay a single egg in the first half of December. It is estimated that Wisdom has produced 50-60 eggs throughout her lifetime and as many as 30 chicks that have successfully fledged. Biologists first identified and banded Wisdom in 1956 after she laid an egg, which is unusual for Laysan albatrosses who typically breed after the age of 5.
Wisdom’s remarkable story has been shared on social media, highlighting the millions of seabirds that return to Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the North Pacific Ocean to nest and raise their young. With such a long lifespan and impressive production record, it’s no wonder that Wisdom is considered one of the world’s oldest birds.