The oldest known bird in the world, Wisdom, a Laysan albatross, has laid an egg at the age of approximately 74. This event took place at the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in Hawaii with a new partner. This is the first egg Wisdom has laid in four years, and researchers estimate that she has laid between 50 and 60 eggs in her life. Jonathan Plissner, a wildlife biologist, described the event as a “special joy” and expressed optimism that the egg will hatch as the father appears attentive during his incubation shifts.
Wisdom was first found and banded in 1956 after she laid her first egg. Laysan albatrosses typically do not breed until they are five years old. Wisdom has raised a total of 30 chicks in her lifetime and had previously mated with an albatross named Akeakamai, who has not been seen in recent years. The average lifespan of this species is around 68 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
This event highlights the remarkable longevity and reproductive success of Wisdom, showcasing the unique characteristics and behavior of Laysan albatrosses. The news of Wisdom’s latest egg has generated excitement and hope for the successful hatching of the chick, adding to the legacy of this extraordinary bird.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com