Royal Cam Albatross ~ Amazing Albatross Courtship Dance & Display! 10.30.20

Albatross courtship is unique among seabirds, both in its complexity and its duration. Males and females engage in a coordinated "dancing" display, in which the partners face one another and perform stereotyped and often synchronized behaviors such as bill "clappering" (in which the bill is quickly opened and closed repeatedly); "sky calling" (in which the bird lifts its bill to the sky, uttering a call like the "moo" of a cow); and fanning the wings while prancing in place. These displays are performed in repeating cycles for up to an hour each, numerous times per day. This behavior allows potential mates to evaluate each others' suitability as long-term partners.
Once formed, pair bonds in albatrosses appear to be lifelong. However, after the initial courtship phase is over, the elaborate courtship rituals are much reduced or abandoned altogether in subsequent years. Researchers believe that these displays function more in pair formation than in the maintenance of the pair bond. Thank you for watching!
Video captured & edited by Lady Hawk
Please join the new facebook group Royal Cam Albatross Group New Zealand for up to date information on the albatross family and to share information on albatross conservation, photos and comments! / 991026361293354
Courtesy of Dept of Conservation Royal Cam, Royal Albatross Taiaroa Head, New Zealand & Cornell Lab.

[@MarlboroughAnne]

Truly one of the most fascinating displays of affection ever created. I love albatross! Digging the trio action as well. The ‘head-flip’ is a trip.

[@debralounder3810]

I’ll never be frightened by horror film screams again because these influence to look at them In a different light lol

[@JPEaglesandKatz]

It has been such a joy when I started watching these albatross about a year ago (or half a year I forgot). They are miracles of the seas and their kind friendly nature and interactions are amazing. Thanks for pointing me in this direction ladyhawk as I was already following SWFEC. It's defenitely easier to watch if you have a weak stomach for some of the harsher facts of nature as with eagles. Can't wait to see how things unfold and for the next breeding season. Hope little Pippa is flying safe and mom and dad as well. And thanks ofc to the department of conservation for providing a safe haven for these miracles.

[@LookingupforJesus396]

Wow! That one bird truly has got ALL the moves! Such a display with great enthusiasm ❤️

[@GhostVanguard]

The initial creaking or chattering when it throws its head back and spreads its wings reminds me of the sound Shemp used to make

[@SirImran]

Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you

[@Jomama02]

Those were some great sky calls! This is beautiful to watch! Thank you Lady Hawk.

[@elforfor65]

I've seen some d measuring contests in my day, but this takes the cake.

[@woodlark391]

You ain't seen nuttin' yet. Lady Hawk! Point this admirer to the musical section and Barry White!🧞‍♂️🥂

[@vanillapuffin2121]

fabulous birds

[@birutal4511]

Albatros flies 💗, flies back thanks Lady Hawk 🌞

[@2101case]

Courtship rituals are reduced in subsequent years. Sounds familiar.

[@woodlark391]

😂 🤣 🙃

[@ladyhawk]

LOL :)

[@ellenriemann576]

This is so cool.

[@annbell6453]

It's got to be so hard to "date" when a third party comes and tries to get in on the action, lol.

[@bournemouthbelle1152]

Wonderful footage missus.

[@lindakontol5351]

So pretty and exciting! Thanks Lady Hawk😍🤗🌺🌸

[@carolynnunes3922]

Thank you, M’Lady! God bless you and your family God bless us, every one!

[@louannmiles6744]

Love sky calls. So interesting and a joy to watch Lady Hawk ❤💕

[@susanshepard7179]

Interesting courtship rituals. Much like humans, over time they become reduced or down to nothing. Some human spread their wings and fly to others for new rituals.

[@beatricecallan]

Unfortunately

[@Youneverknow222]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@beatricecallan]

So these are the juvies having spent many years at sea.....now trying to take on some responsibility as future parents!!

[@joelmamesquita6988]

💕

[@donnaroberts164]

❤❤❤

[@merxeddie6474]

Is it 2 males to one female or the opposite?

[@beatricecallan]

I think it‘s two males fighting for the attention of one female?!