Albatrosses, specifically black-browed albatrosses, are the subject of recent research that sheds light on the effect of environmental conditions on the longevity of relationships within their population. The study underscored that climate change and warming waters are causing an increase in black-browed albatross break-up rates. In the following sections, we delve deeper into understanding the black-browed albatross, its distribution, the threats it faces, and its protection status.
About Black-Browed Albatross
Scientifically known as Thalassarche melanophris, black-browed albatrosses are part of the albatross family Diomedeidae, colloquially referred to as the ‘tube-noses’. This family also includes shearwaters, petrels, and fulmars. They are especially noted for being the most commonly found and widespread type of albatross. The origin of their name is quite literal, deriving from the distinctive dark black plumage found above their eyes. Albatrosses are true marine birds that inhabit the oceans of the southern hemisphere, returning to land strictly for breeding purposes.
Distribution of Black-Browed Albatross
These albatrosses have a rather broad geographical range. They are extensively found across the south Atlantic and are circumpolar in the southern hemisphere. Besides, they’re known to travel further northward when carried by cold ocean currents. During the breeding season, which typically falls in September and October, these birds make their nests on south Atlantic islands such as South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, as well as on South Sandwich and the Cape Horn islands.
Threats to Black-Browed Albatross
Black-browed albatrosses face several threats that endanger their existence. Hunting and trapping activities aimed at terrestrial animals pose significant risks. Further, fishing and harvesting of aquatic resources can disrupt their habitat and food supply. More so, they are adversely affected by invasive species, the introduction of harmful genes and diseases. Unpredictable natural threats like volcanoes also pose considerable danger. Most significantly, climate change and severe weather conditions, as evidenced by rising breakup rates among this population, are emerging as major threats to these marine birds.
Protection Status of Black-Browed Albatross
Currently, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the black-browed albatross is placed under the category of ‘Least Concern’. This designation indicates that while the species may be affected by certain threats, it is not considered to be close to extinction at present. However, with the escalating impact of climate change and other aforementioned threats, close monitoring and proactive conservation efforts will be crucial to ensure the future survival of this widespread albatross species.
