Campbell Island Pelagic Birds

Campbell Island Albatross (Thalassarche impavida) showing the intense stare from the yellow iris
Campbell Island Albatross (Thalassarche impavida) showing the intense stare from the yellow iris

As alluded to in a previous post, the howling wind was a big part of our first day on Campbell Island. The plan had been to anchor up in Perseverence Harbour for 2 nights but having dragged 2 anchors the captain made the decision to retreat into the lee of the island and we spent the night moving up and down the east coast. The resulting GPS tracklog was reminiscent of a hank of wool with loop upon loop of red strands by morning. The forecast was for improving conditions so we spent most of the morning on deck enjoying the photo opportunities on the Campbell Island pelagic birds. While not quite the original plan, a plan B that involves photographing a passing parade of Southern Royal, Campbell Island and  Light-mantled Albatross, interspersed with the usual Cape and Giant Petrels against the dramatic landscape of Campbell Island isn’t half bad.. Once the wind began to settle we headed back to Perserverence Harbour to continue our exploration of the island.

Campbell Island Albatross enjoying the wind howling down the length of Northeast Harbour, Mount Lyall in the background
Campbell Island Albatross enjoying the wind howling down the length of Northeast Harbour, Mount Lyall in the background
Southern Royal Albatross (Diomedea epomophora) with North Head and Bull Rock in the background
Southern Royal Albatross (Diomedea epomophora) with North Head and Bull Rock in the background
Campbell Island Albatross arcing down the skim low over the waves
Campbell Island Albatross arcing down to skim low over the waves
Pair of Light-mantled Albatross
Pair of Light-mantled Albatross
Light-mantled Albatross (Phoebetria palpebrata) against a background of Campbell Island Dracophyllum and tussock
Light-mantled Albatross (Phoebetria palpebrata) against a background of Campbell Island Dracophyllum and tussock
Northern Giant Petrel (Macronectes halli) showing typical plumage pattern and red-brown tip of the bill
Northern Giant Petrel (Macronectes halli) showing typical plumage pattern and red-brown tip of the bill

All photos with Nikon D810 and Nikon 200-400mm f4 VR lens

 

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