In an extraordinary feat of longevity and vitality, Wisdom, the world’s oldest known wild bird, has laid an egg at the remarkable age of approximately 74, according to US biologists. Wisdom, a Laysan albatross, was filmed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) at the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the Pacific Ocean, tending to her latest egg alongside her partner.
A Life of Record-Breaking Resilience
First tagged in 1956, when she was estimated to be about five years old, Wisdom has defied the natural lifespan of her species, which typically ranges between 12 and 40 years. Over the decades, she has continued to astonish scientists with her resilience and ability to reproduce at such an advanced age.
Laysan albatrosses are known for their slow reproductive cycles, usually producing one egg every year or two. Despite these odds, Wisdom is believed to have raised over 30 chicks during her lifetime, with her most recent offspring hatching in 2021.
A Symbol of Conservation Success
Midway Atoll, a remote island in the Pacific, hosts one of the largest populations of Laysan albatrosses. Wisdom’s continued ability to reproduce highlights the importance of conservation efforts at the refuge, which provides a safe haven for these seabirds. The USFWS has worked for decades to protect the habitat, which is crucial for the survival of species like the albatross, often threatened by climate change, plastic pollution, and invasive predators.
An Inspirational Legacy
Wisdom’s remarkable journey has become a symbol of hope and resilience for conservationists worldwide. Her story underscores the need for sustained efforts to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity.
Bruce Peterjohn, chief of the US Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory, lauded Wisdom, stating that her longevity and productivity provide invaluable insights into the potential lifespans and reproductive capacities of wild birds.
As Wisdom continues her journey, biologists and bird enthusiasts alike remain in awe of this resilient albatross, whose life story is a testament to nature’s wonders and the critical role of conservation in safeguarding wildlife. Her latest egg represents not only a biological marvel but also a beacon of hope for the future of her species.
