A surprisingly long lifespan for some birds
At 74 years old, the female Laysan albatross named Wisdom was considered the oldest living wild bird in the world in 2024. She has already exceeded the life expectancy of her species by 20 years. Scientists believe she hatched in 1951 but was first spotted in 1956. They speculate that she raised between 30 and 36 chicks during her life, and even hatched one at the tender age of 70. If this species is known to be faithful for life, this female does not seem to have had a partner for a while.
In terms of long life expectancy, we must also look at the case of colorful birds, highlighted by animated films and true sonic marvels: large parrots. The case of the Ara Arauna, or more commonly described as the Blue Macaw, is of concern. Recognizable among thousands thanks to its yellow and azure colors, weighs approximately 1.5 kg and is nearly 90 cm long. This unique bird can easily exceed 50 years of life expectancy and some specimens have even exceeded 100 years! To be able to observe the animal that inspired the hero of the film Rio (2011), you have to go to South America, between Brazil and Panama.
And on the King's side, what do we know? Obviously, the Golden Eagle has less to fear in Nature than a smaller bird, having less defense capabilities than the large sedentary golden which can exceed two meters in wingspan. The ringing technique, put forward by the LPO, tells us that it can live 32 years in the wild but that captivity can make it wait half a century.
Varies depending on living conditions
Although many wild birds are breaking records, they still face a lack of food or care more than animals held in captivity.
Their metabolism, which is considered ultra-fast, however, seems to constitute a real asset in extending their life expectancy. This type of metabolism generally corresponds to faster aging in other animals due to cell damage.
Birds, however, appear to be an exception, meaning that they may well be endowed with abilities that allow them to minimize these cellular problems. Several studies attest to this.
Some life expectancies:
Pink flamingo: 25 years old
Greater Snow Goose: 6 years old
Great cormorant: 15 to 20 years
Blackbird: 2.4 years
Goldfinch: 12 and 15 years old
Fasciated Hoopoe: 11 years old
Ruby-throated Hummingbird: 3 – 5 years
Article originally published in April 2024
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