Wisdom, the world’s oldest known wild bird, has captivated biologists and bird enthusiasts alike by laying an egg at the remarkable age of 74. Tagged by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in 1956 when she was an estimated five years old, this Laysan albatross was spotted on the Midway Atoll national wildlife refuge in the Pacific Ocean with a new partner diligently caring for their egg.
Typically, Laysan albatrosses enjoy a much shorter lifespan, ranging from 12 to 40 years. However, Wisdom has defied these standards, having successfully raised over 30 chicks throughout her life, with her last hatchling born in 2021. This year marks a poignant transition as she begins a new chapter with a new mate after the absence of her longtime partner, Akeakamai, who has not been seen for several years. Interestingly, while Laysan albatrosses usually mate for life, Wisdom's ability to continue nesting speaks to her remarkable adaptability.
Jon Plissner, a supervisory wildlife biologist at the refuge, shared his thoughts on her unusual longevity during an interview with BBC Radio 4's Today program, noting that Wisdom stands out in a species that numbers around two to three million during breeding season. He stated, “It’s really been remarkable… Wisdom seems to pique the interest of people across the world. We wait each year with bated breath for her return.” With nature’s unpredictability, he estimates there is a 70-80% chance for the egg to hatch, as both albatross parents share the responsibilities of incubation and feeding.
First tagged in 1956 after laying an egg, Wisdom's encounters at Midway continue to be significant as this unincorporated US territory in the Hawaiian archipelago houses the largest albatross colony in the world. This extraordinary story of Wisdom not only highlights the endurance of wildlife against the backdrop of environmental change but also inspires hope for future generations of birds and the natural world at large.
