A huge, long-winged seabird of the Pacific Ocean. Adult is sooty-gray overall, entirely dark except for paler face and tail coverts. Outstretched wings are very long and narrow. Bill is grayish pink with a dark tip. Sexes are similar. Juvenile has dark bill. Other albatrosses in range have white markings. Older birds show paler head, underparts, and rump. Flight is dominated by long glides and occasional slow wingbeats.

Length: 82 (cm) Wingspan: 214 (cm)

Habitat:

Open ocean; very rarely seen from shore.

Behavior:

Breeds colonially on islands; nest is on sandy ground. Away from nest site, spends life at sea. Long, tapered wings take advantage of the slightest breeze and albatrosses may soar for long periods without a flap. Flight is wandering, banking, low over water's surface. Sometimes follows boats.

Feeding:

Swims and dabbles on water's surface; eats fish eggs, squid, animal scraps, and garbage.