Diomedea sanfordi (Northern Royal Albatross)

IUCN Status: Endangered

This is another giant albatross species seen off Tasmania. Northern Royal albatross are distinguished from the other giant albatross by the pattern of the dark feathers on the wings, and white on the back. They breed on mainly on islands off New Zealand, however there is one colony on the mainland, that is the only albatross colony in the world close to significant human population and agriculture.

This individual made a fleeting visit to the boat, and then was gone again. Nevertheless, seeing a new species, and being in the presence of these areal giants is always special.