Southern royal albatross are one of the largest albatross species. It is also the whitest of all the albatrosses when fully mature, with white body, back, and head. The upper wings are also white with some black barring that lightens as they age. Wingspan can reach 3.60 metres.
Southern Royal albatross are endemic to New Zealand, and travels circumpolar, most commonly found from the Great Australian Bight to eastern South Atlantic. Breeding takes place biennially, primarily on Campbell Island, with a few on the Auckland Islands and at Tairoa Head on the South Island.
Southern Royal albatross are considered ‘Range restricted’ by the Department of Conservation and‘Vulnerable’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
It has been estimated that there are around 8400 breeding pairs on Campbell Island.
Southern Royal albatross feed mainly on cephalopods such as squid, but also eats some fish, crustaceans and salps. Predominately a surface feeder, it may make shallow dives to two metre depths.
Southern Royal albatross has been observed caught by commercial fishing operations, mostly longlining with a few interactions reported in trawl fisheries.
All albatross species are collectively known by Maori as Toroa and are highly valued for their bones, white feathers, and as a rare delicacy. The feathers were used to adorn war canoes and as ornaments for people of rank. The bones were highly prized for making flutes and were used to make neck and ear pendants as well.Southern royal albatross.
International Union for Conservation of nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red listNew Zealand Threat Classification System list