The Tristan albatross is a large seabird from the albatross family. One of the great albatrosses of the genus Diomedea, it was only widely recognised as a full species in 1998.
Region
South Atlantic Ocean
Typical Environment
Breeds on upland moorland and tussock grasslands of Gough Island, then ranges widely across the South Atlantic. At sea it occupies open pelagic waters, often along oceanic fronts and productive upwellings. Birds forage from subtropical to temperate latitudes, sometimes approaching continental shelf edges off southern Africa and South America. Nesting sites are usually on windswept plateaus with dense vegetation offering some shelter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A giant ocean wanderer, the Tristan albatross breeds almost exclusively on remote Gough Island in the South Atlantic. Recognized as a full species in 1998, it is among the largest flying birds with a wingspan approaching 3.5 m. It is critically endangered, with chicks heavily impacted by invasive house mice and adults threatened by longline fisheries. Its dynamic soaring allows it to travel vast distances with minimal effort.
Temperament
colonial breeder, calm at sea but assertive around nest
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Breeds in loose colonies with long-term monogamous pairs that perform elaborate courtship displays. Typically lays a single egg and breeds biennially due to the prolonged chick-rearing period. Nests are simple mounds on open ground amid tussock and fern-bush vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Mostly silent at sea, but vocal at colonies with nasal moans, whistles, and bill-clapping during displays. Sky-calling and synchronized bill snaps are common in pair-bonding rituals.
