General

Shy Albatross: Large seabird with white body and gray back. Bill is gray with yellow tip and base. White underwing has diagnostic narrow black margin. Sexes are similar. Juvenile has black-tipped bill and gray on back and sides of neck, sometimes forming a collar.

Range and Habitat

Shy Albatross: Breeds on only three islands, south of Tasmania, including Albatross Island, Mewstone, and Pedra Branca. Nests on rocks and feeds in waters over the continental shelf, including in harbors and bays.

Breeding and Nesting

Shy Albatross: One white egg with red brown flecks is laid on a sturdy column of packed earth and vegetation built on a rocky terrace or broad ledge, usually on a slope overlooking the sea. Incubation ranges from 62 to 66 days and is carried out by both parents.

Foraging and Feeding

Shy Albatross: Feeds on fish, cephalopods, crustaceans, and tunicates caught at the water surface; follows fishing vessels in flocks to feed on garbage thrown overboard.

Vocalization

Shy Albatross: Usually silent.

Similar Species

Shy Albatross: Laysan Albatross has darker back, shorter bill, and less white on rump.