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Shy Albatross photo 2

Shy Albatross

Thalassarche cauta

About the Shy Albatross

The Shy Albatross (Thalassarche cauta) is a species documented in our database. Learn more about this species through the information below.

Conservation Status

Shy Albatross is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

Population Trend

declining

Current Threats

  • Climate change
  • Overfishing
  • Pollution
  • Habitat degradation

Photo Gallery

Shy Albatross photo 2
1 photos available

Geographic Distribution

Distribution by Region

Australia

Continent: Oceania
Country: Australia
Region: Southern coast

New Zealand

Continent: Oceania
Country: New Zealand
Region: Southern coast

South Africa

Continent: Africa
Country: South Africa
Region: Southern coast

Distribution Overview

The Shy Albatross breeds on islands in the southern hemisphere and spends the rest of the year at sea, roaming the Southern Ocean.

Quick Facts

Size
90 - 100 cm
Weight
3 - 4 kg
Lifespan
up to 50-60 years years
Diet
KrillSmall fish (sardines, anchovies)Cephalopods (squid, octopus)Carrion

Habitat

Open oceanIslandsCoastal waters

Behavior

  • Spends most of its life at sea, feeding on krill, fish, and cephalopods
  • Breeds on islands, forming large colonies
  • Engages in monogamous breeding, with pairs forming during breeding season
  • Females lay one egg, which is incubated for approximately 80 days
  • Both parents care for young, which leave the nest after approximately 120-140 days