The Remarkable Return of Wisdom: The World’s Oldest Seabird Nests Successfully at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge

Millions of seabirds, including the world’s oldest bird, Wisdom, recently returned to Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the North Pacific Ocean to nest and raise their young. At around 72 years old and recognized by her band number Z333, Wisdom was described as being quite spry and actively courting other birds. Despite her age, she laid an egg in the first half of December and has produced 50-60 eggs and as many as 30 chicks that have successfully fledged.

Biologists first identified and banded Wisdom in 1956 after she laid an egg and are aware that Laysan albatrosses do not typically breed before the age of 5. The record-breaking bird has returned for nesting season in late November, where she engaged in a mating dance with potential suitors on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. This update on the remarkable bird has been shared on social media, highlighting her incredible story.