Antipodean Albatross

Diomedea antipodensis is a great albatross breeding in the New Zealand region. It differs from wandering albatross through genetics, breeding range and adult plumage progression. Adults are enormous with a pink bill and long narrow wings. Males become whiter with age, while females commonly retain more dark upperwing and body plumage.

Most breed on Antipodes Island, with a smaller population on the Auckland Islands. Foraging journeys extend across the Pacific and Tasman Sea. They soar using wind gradients and feed on squid, fish and carrion. Pairs rear one chick over a long breeding cycle and do not breed annually.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Critical. Subantarctic expeditions near Antipodes Island and pelagic trips off eastern New Zealand offer chances.