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World’s Oldest Wild Bird Prepares for Motherhood at 74

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Rithani

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6 min read

12 Dec, 2024

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Parenting is no easy task, even for the young and energetic. But Wisdom, a 74-year-old Laysan albatross, is defying the odds by preparing to raise another chick at Midway Atoll, a remote wildlife refuge near Hawaii.


Recognized as the world’s oldest known wild bird, Wisdom continues to inspire wildlife enthusiasts with her resilience and adaptability.


Having returned to Midway Atoll for decades, Wisdom has laid over 50 eggs throughout her lifetime, often with the same partner.



Laysan albatrosses are known for their monogamous nature, but Wisdom's longtime mate has not been seen for several years. Recently, she has been seen bonding with new male companions.


This year, she laid another egg, and her new partner is actively assisting in incubation duties.


Wildlife officials at the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge are hopeful that the egg will hatch successfully. Footage shared by the US Fish and Wildlife Service captures the two parents-to-be attentively tending to their egg, taking turns to keep it warm.


Wisdom was first tagged in 1956 when she was observed laying an egg at around five years old, which is the typical age Laysan albatrosses reach maturity.


This means she is now at least 74 years old, though she could be even older. Her extraordinary longevity has earned her the title of the world’s oldest known wild bird.


Laysan albatrosses, with wingspans reaching up to 80 inches (203 cm), are exceptional long-distance fliers, capable of traveling over 900 miles (1,500 km) in search of food.


Image source: Pixabay


While most small birds live only two to three years, seabirds like albatrosses and penguins can reach 40 to 50 years. Wisdom's incredible age far exceeds this, placing her in a league of her own. It is a tale of perseverance and hope, showing that even in the wild, parenthood has no age limit.


As the world eagerly watches, Wisdom's legacy as a symbol of endurance and adaptability continues to grow.


Wildlife experts remain optimistic that her latest egg will soon hatch, adding yet another remarkable chapter to the life of this legendary bird.


Also Read l Rare Encounter: Scientists Examine One of the World’s Rarest Whales

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