World’s Oldest Wild Bird Lays Egg at 74

World’s Oldest Wild Bird Lays Egg at 74

Sub : Env

Sec : Species in news

Why in News

• Wisdom, the world’s oldest known wild bird, a Laysan albatross, has laid an egg at the age of 74 in the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, part of the Hawaiian Archipelago. This significant event highlights the resilience and longevity of these seabirds, sparking global interest in wildlife conservation.

About Wisdom:

• Species: Laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis).
• Approximately 74 years, first banded as an adult in 1956.
• Possibly her 60th egg laid, after a four-year hiatus.

• Breeding Site: Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, a critical habitat for millions of seabirds.

About Laysan Albatross:

• Scientific Name: Phoebastria immutabilis.
• Found primarily in the North Pacific, especially around Midway Atoll and Laysan Island.
• Wingspan ranges from 6 to 7 feet, allowing long-distance flights using dynamic soaring.
• The species is known for longevity.
• Feeds on squid, fish eggs, and crustaceans, but often ingests plastic mistakenly.
• Lays one egg per season with an incubation period of 62-66 days.
• Pairs form lifelong bonds.
• Can travel over 4,000 miles and spend up to five years at sea before nesting.
• Special features: Employs dynamic soaring to conserve energy during long flights.
• Elaborate courtship displays include synchronized movements like bill touching and head bobbing.

About Hawaiian Archipelago:

• Situated in the central Pacific Ocean, spanning approximately 2,400 km.
• Comprises 137 islands, with eight major islands, including Hawaii (Big Island), Maui, Oahu, and Kauai.
• Formed by volcanic activity due to the Pacific Plate moving over a stationary hotspot.
• Features Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, and Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain when measured from base to summit.
• Known for shield volcanoes with fluid lava flows.
• Home to endemic species due to isolation, such as the Hawaiian monk seal and the Nene (Hawaiian goose).
• Rich biodiversity includes coral reefs and unique terrestrial ecosystems.
• Tropical climate with microclimatic variations influenced by trade winds and altitude.
• Recognized globally for traditional practices like hula dance and luaus.
• Honolulu on Oahu serves as the economic and administrative centre.
• Hosts Pearl Harbor, a significant U.S. naval base with historical importance during World War II.
• Plays a pivotal role in U.S. military and strategic operations in the Pacific.