For years, renowned albatross expert Hob Osterlund has delighted social media followers with her unofficial fledgling pageant photos on Kauaʻi, celebrating hilarious “hairdos” and quirky personalities. Kuaihelani has also joined the fun by sharing categorized photos on Facebook and Instagram, and now we're bringing the smiles to to you here! While there are no prizes, everyone wins by witnessing these incredible Albatross transformations. All photos and videos are by USFWS biologist and volunteer Dan Rapp.
We introduce our first contestant from Kuaihelani for the TrossLocks Pageant. A Kaʻupu (Black-footed albatross) sporting a hairstyle that can only be categorized as Business in the Front, Party in the Neck.
Downy. Dangerous. Absolutely fabulous.
But wait—there's more! In the background, a pair of Mōlī (Laysan albatross) are putting on yet another courtship dance performance as backup dancers. If you thought they'd already nailed their routine this season…think again. These lovebirds revisit their signature moves multiple times while they're on Kuaihelani.
Sometimes you don't need much of a ‘do to portray your personality. In this Barely There category, the half-lidded stare and slicked back coif clearly say this Mōlī (Laysan albatross) is too cool for school.
The only thing missing is a tiny pair of rad sunglasses to complete the look.
We have an entry for the Rock Star-Look-Alike category! We never knew albatrosses on Kuaihelani were KISS fans, but this contestant is clearly Gene Simmons' #1 fan.
That perfectly heart-shaped ‘do framing their face receives appreciation from the judges, showing a true commitment. Rock and squawk forever!
After seeing the bikini entries on Kaua'i, we've received an entry for the Shorts category. With a carefully crafted two-part hairdo and a look that says “I know I'm fabulous,” this Mōlī (Laysan albatross) works the camera for all its worth.
Forget bedhead… this Mōlī (Laysan albatross) is pioneering brow fluff.
That piercing stare is framed by a pair of really impressive eyebrows—proof that the best TrossLocks entries don't always sit on top of your head. Sometimes the hottest hairstyle of the season on Kuaihelani is above your eyes.
We're thinking this one deserves the TrossLocks Pageant category: Best Brows.
Dan Rapp captured this future flyer in slow motion — and yes, this fabulous feathered contestant is bringing some serious energy for the ‘80s Hair category.
This luscious “featherdo” is giving major Kenny Powers vibes, complete with the fluffy, flowy chest feathers.