The oldest known banded bird in the wild, a Mōlī or Laysan albatross known as Wisdom and who is at least 74 years old, has once again mystified biologists. Being able to reproduce and develop an egg, much less survive at sea and rear at least 30 chicks during her 74+ years defies logic and is truly remarkable. She is more than a symbol of hope and resilience, she also helps scientists better understand how to fully support such long lived and majestic seabirds.
Enjoy the affectionate moments as Wisdom (band number Z333) and her mate welcome their offspring into the world. All images were captured by photographer and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Volunteer Dan Rapp and were made possible to share with world because of the members and donors of the Friends of Midway Atoll.
