How to Spot a Black-Footed Albatross

The Black-Footed Albatross is a large seabird that is often found in the Pacific Ocean. It is the only dark colored Albatross in its range. If you want to know how to identify the Black-Footed Albatross in more detail, here's what you need to know.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know the habitat and range of the Black-Footed Albatross. The Black-Footed Albatross is found throughout the northern Pacific Ocean. It can be seen flying above open ocean during the non-breeding season, and it can be seen off the western coast of North America (mainly the California coast) during the summer months. It can be found on sandy areas of islands, such as the Hawaiian Islands, during breeding season.

2. Observe the appearance of the Black-Footed Albatross. The Black-Footed Albatross is primarily brown to gray-black in color. It has a white ring near the base of its bill. This ring may be absent in juveniles. The bill is large and dark and its feet are a dark blackish-brown. The tail of the Black-Footed Albatross is square and the wings are pointed and very long and narrow. The underparts of the Black-Footed Albatross are often dark, but there may be white near the rump and under the tail. Males and females look similar.

3. Marvel at the size of the Black-Footed Albatross, a large seabird but small in size compared to other Albatrosses. It's length ranges from 25 to 30 inches and they weigh approximately 5 to 9 pounds. They have very long wings with a wingspan of 75 to 78 inches.

4. Listen to the sounds of the Black-Footed Albatross. These birds make low, loud, and nasal sounds. Their sounds include single notes and growls.

5. Pay attention to the Black-Footed Albatross in flight. The Black-Footed Albatross can soar for long periods without any wing movement.