Story: Albatrosses
This tiny southern royal albatross chick has just hatched. The parents will take turns to brood it until it is able to maintain its temperature without assistance. For southern royal albatrosses this takes four to five weeks. Meanwhile, the non-brooding parent feeds the chick with frequent small meals. It has to work hard to find food close enough to the island, and travels to and fro in often adverse winds to maintain the needs of the very young chick. As the chick grows, meals are delivered several days apart.
About this item
Department of Conservation
Reference: 10039438
Photograph by Ian Flux
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