Short-tailed Albatross Fledges at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge

Short-tailed albatross testing his wings. Credit: John Klavitter/USFWS

Endangered Bird's Departure Carries More Hope for the Species

For only the second time in recorded history, a short-tailed albatross has fledged outside of Japan. The fledgling was last observed June 10, 2012, exercising its wings near its nest site and taking a short test flight from Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. The young albatross has not been seen since it was observed flying so it is likely headed to the nutrient rich waters of the Bering Sea. This is a momentous occasion for species recovery efforts across the Pacific and beyond, bringing hope for other species on the brink of extinction.

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