Mollymawks

Mollymawks are a group of medium to large seabirds in the albatross family, Diomedeidae. The name is commonly applied to several species, especially those placed in the genus Thalassarche. Mollymawks are pelagic, spending most of their lives far from land, and they breed on subantarctic and temperate islands in the southern oceans.

Physically, mollymawks have long, narrow wings adapted for dynamic soaring and gliding over the ocean for long distances. Their plumage patterns vary by species, but many display white undersides with darker upperparts, and their bills are slender and adapted for catching prey. They are highly migratory and can cover thousands of kilometers while foraging, often ranging across the Southern Hemisphere.

Diet and foraging behavior revolve around marine life. Mollymawks primarily eat squid, fish, and crustaceans, taking prey at or just below the surface and occasionally scavenging near fishing vessels. They typically hunt in productive ocean fronts and can exploit rapid changes in wind and sea state to conserve energy during long-ranging trips.

Reproduction involves annual breeding seasons on remote islands. Birds lay a single egg, which is incubated for several weeks by one or both parents. Both adults feed and protect the chick after hatching. Juveniles undertake extensive migrations before returning to breed.

Conservation-wise, threats include bycatch in longline and other fisheries, introduced predators on breeding colonies, habitat disturbance, and pollution. Status varies among species, with some listed by conservation bodies as of concern and others faring relatively well. Protective measures and fisheries management have reduced some anthropogenic impacts on many mollymawk populations.