Black-browed Albatross

Thalassarche melanophris is a widespread mollymawk that has colonised the New Zealand region. It differs from Campbell albatross through its dark eye and narrower golden bill stripe. Adults have a white head crossed by a bold black eyebrow, dark upperwings and a yellow-orange bill. Juveniles have a darker bill and greyer collar.

Small numbers breed in the New Zealand subantarctic, while major colonies occur elsewhere in the Southern Ocean. It is a regular visitor to shelf waters around the South Island. It takes fish, squid and krill and readily follows vessels. Birds use dynamic soaring but also flap more often than giant albatrosses.

The New Zealand classification is Coloniser. Kaikōura pelagic trips and subantarctic voyages provide regular opportunities.