The Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross is a large seabird in the albatross family Diomedeidae.
Region
South Atlantic Ocean
Typical Environment
Breeds on the Tristan da Cunha archipelago and Gough Island, then disperses across the subtropical South Atlantic. At sea it frequents pelagic waters, frontal zones, and productive upwelling systems such as the Benguela Current off Namibia and South Africa. It also occurs off Brazil and around oceanic shelf edges where prey concentrates. Near land it is mainly seen around breeding colonies on tussock-covered slopes and cliffs.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross is a large seabird in the albatross family Diomedeidae, famous for dynamic soaring over vast stretches of the South Atlantic. It breeds on remote Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island and then ranges widely at sea. The species is threatened primarily by longline fisheries bycatch and ingestion of marine debris. Long-lived and slow-breeding, it typically raises a single chick per season, making populations slow to recover.
Juvenile on Nightingale Island
Temperament
solitary and wide-ranging at sea; colonial when breeding
Flight Pattern
soaring glider using dynamic soaring with minimal flapping
Social Behavior
Breeds in dense colonies on remote islands, often on grassy slopes. Forms long-term pair bonds and shows strong site fidelity. Builds simple nests and lays a single egg; both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet at sea, but at colonies it gives braying calls, wails, and cackles. Courtship includes bill-clapping and soft moans.
