Wisdom, the world's oldest known wild bird, has laid her 60th egg at the age of 74. This marks her first egg in four years, according to officials at the US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS).
Wisdom, a Laysan albatross, has long been a celebrated resident of the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the northwestern Hawaiian Archipelago. Her return to the refuge sparked joy among wildlife enthusiasts, as she quickly engaged with a new mate. This iconic bird has been a familiar figure at Midway since she was first banded as an adult in 1956, after laying her initial egg.
The USFWS said in a Facebook post, “At an approximate age of 74, the queen of seabirds returned to Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge at the northwestern edge of the Hawaiian Archipelago last week and immediately began interacting with a male. Like other Laysan albatross, or mōlī in Hawaiian, Wisdom returns to the same nesting site each year to reunite with her mate and if able, lay one egg. For decades she did this with the same partner, Akeakamai, but that bird has not been seen for several years, causing Wisdom to begin courtship dances with other males.”
Jonathan Plissner, a supervisory wildlife biologist at the refuge, described the egg-laying as “a special joy.” He expressed hope that the egg would hatch, noting that Wisdom's new partner appears dedicated, taking long shifts to incubate the egg.
Wisdom's history is remarkable. According to Plissner, over her lifetime, it is estimated she has laid 50 to 60 eggs and successfully raised around 30 chicks. She was first identified and fitted with a band in 1956 after laying her initial egg, as Laysan albatrosses typically don't breed until they are at least five years old.
Wisdom, known for her distinctive band number Z333, continues to be a symbol of resilience, appearing in various photos and videos. Her new mate received a band on November 29 to ensure future tracking and identification.
Wisdom's journey has captivated the public, with many social media users showering her with admiration.
One commented, “Wow she hasn't aged a day! I hope I look that good at 74!”
Another added, “How amazing! I have been following Wisdom's story for years now. Just shared about her during a presentation yesterday.”
“She's awesome! Congrats Wisdom!” wrote another user.
The average lifespan of Laysan albatrosses is about 68 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
