Hawaii is home to a variety of birds, many of which are endangered. The seabirds pictured below only come to shore to reproduce. The birds were hatched in the Princeville area of Kauai, spent three years at sea then returned to find a mate. They won’t produce eggs until eight years of age. This species of bird is known for elaborate courtship displays that involve bowing, chattering and clacking their bills. These birds were hanging out in a quiet neighborhood next to a road. After they heard human voices, they started clacking their bills. Name this bird.
Diagnosis: Laysan Albatross
Laysan Albatross spend their entire lives at sea, only coming ashore to reproduce. They eat fish, crustaceans, squid and flying fish eggs. These amazing birds can actually sleep while flying! According to Dr. Rattenborg, birds may allow one half of their brain to enter into slow-wave sleep while keeping the other half alert to predators.
More information at http://www.birds.com/species/k-o/laysan-albatross/ (general facts) and /bcCreatePost.aspx (abstract of Dr. Rattenborg’s research).