Southern Royal Albatross

Diomedea epomophora is a giant albatross breeding chiefly on Campbell Island. It differs from northern royal albatross through whiter upperwings in adults and a darker cutting edge on the bill. Adults are mostly white with black flight feathers and a huge pale pink bill. Long wings support effortless gliding in strong southern winds.

Nearly the entire population breeds on Campbell Island, with a few birds on the Auckland Islands. Foraging ranges extend across the Southern Ocean. It takes squid, fish and carrion from the sea surface. Pairs form long bonds and raise a single chick over roughly a year.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Vulnerable. Campbell Island expeditions and Kaikōura pelagic trips offer the best opportunities.