Meet Prius, the hybrid albatross! This unique bird is the product of a union between a Laysan albatross and a black-footed albatross, both of which breed sympatrically on Tern Island. The behavior of the two species is quite different, which makes Prius a very interesting individual. We presume that he is a male, because of his large size and weight, though we will find out for certain after some genetic analysis. In appearances, he is almost a perfect blend of coloration of the two species. He tends to socialize mostly with black-footed albatross, only his dance repretoire contains moves from both species, so he hasn't been successful in finding a mate (we're hoping for another hybrid to appear to keep him company) . His vocalizations also sound like a mixture between the two species. Laysan and black-footed albatross forage quite differently in the non-breeding season, with the black-footeds foraging mostly off the coast of California and British Columbia and the Laysan foraging throughout the North Pacific ocean. Well, being a product of these two species, the big question is: Where will Prius Go?? The answer might tell us a lot of genetics and the evolution of foraging behavior. He is now equipped with an archival tag that records a location once a day, and he will wear the tag until next winter. We wish Prius the best of luck in his foraging adventures around the Pacific and look forward to seeing his travels. Bon voyage, Prius!
4 comments:
Prius is a great looking bird; much better looking than its namesake. I hope he or she can find a mate. I find it very interesting that Prius is a true combination of the two species; both in physical and behaviorial characteristics. Is it possible that Prius actually has the better dance steps than his parents and the two species? Maybe Prius will start a new dance revolution amoungst the albatross (just kidding). I will enjoy learning how Prius fares in the future, now that it is being tracked.
I didn't realize how big these birds are until this picture. That is quite a handful. Don't let go of the beak. Looks like a pretty good spear. (from dad)
(from mom) I hope he can find a mate--it would be interesting to know if a "hybrid" can actually spin off into a new species (can that happen?). What a beautiful bird. Do you have to sedate them to be able to hold him like that? It is such a large bird that I would assume he is very strong.
That is a beautiful bird Melinda. Does the Prius use solar energy for flying at low speeds and then by the use of its gases achieve higher speeds? I have heard very positive things about the Prius, all of our "green" clients in Leucadia swear by them. I just dont understand what the benefits of "running around town" with a huge bird would bring? Maybe they tie ropes around the birds legs and put on their roller blades and they have them pull them down to the store....kind of like those kite wind/surfers. Stay safe....and run like hell for that 6' peak if you see a swell coming your way.
Hi Melinda. What are you doing? Choking that chicken? It sure looks like your having fun there. The water looks so blue.
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