May 2024 Founder’s Corner: Wisdom of the Laysan Albatross

In the vast expanse of the North Pacific Ocean, amidst the crashing waves and wild winds, there exists a timeless legend, known as Wisdom, the Laysan Albatross. Nestled within the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, Wisdom has captured the hearts and imagination of all who encounter her, including me as I stumbled onto her story.

Laysan Albatrosses are remarkable creatures, renowned for their majestic wingspan and remarkable longevity. However, Wisdom stands out even among her kind. Believed to be 72 years old, she has defied the odds, becoming the world’s oldest known wild bird.

Each year, Wisdom returns to the Midway Atoll, gracefully gliding over the azure waters to reunite with her lifelong mate, Akeakamai, and raise another generation of albatrosses. This year, however, she’s been spotted doing the mating dance with a potential new partner. In fact, her long-time love, Alaekamai, has not been spotted for many months and may have passed on.

As I watched video images of her courting with a potential new partner, a spark of sweet joy and hope moved within me. I thought about her commitment to nurture the next generation, braving the challenges of the open ocean, and taking risks to seek out a new partner after decades of companionship. Her resilience and perseverance felt resolutely meaningful.

Wisdom, the Laysan Albatross with her newly hatched chick. Photo Credit: John Klavitter/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Life is full of ups and downs, inconsistencies, disappointments, losses, and rebirths. Yet, as fragile as the human experience can be, it is also inherently resilient and beautiful. Struggle and loss are invariably paired with joy and hope. To me, Wisdom’s enduring spirit is this symbol of hope through adversity, a reminder that life, while fragile, is also powerful when fueled by determination. In a world filled with uncertainty, Wisdom stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that age is but a number and that the bonds of love and dedication transcend time.

I wonder if we can all find our inner Albatross, our innate drive to overcome and persevere. Can we find new love where love has been lost? Can we be patient enough to do the dance life requires to open new doors? Join me this month as we seek this strength and find a new season of joy opening our hearts to possibility.

Learn more about Wisdom and her wonderful story here: https://www.fws.gov/story/2022-12/wisdom-worlds-oldest-known-wild-bird-returns-midway-atoll

With gratitude for all living beings,

Linnea Terranova