Zoology takes on the Albatross

Zoology students have been studying the amazing marine bird, the Albatross. They spend years on end at sea, never touching land and have the largest wingspan of any other bird (can be over 11 feet!). They have numerous genius adaptations that allow them to survive indefinitely on the ocean (ask a zoology student about them!). Sadly, they are becoming endangered. Baby chicks throw up what is called a bolus, or a ball of material that they cannot digest. Today 100% of the boluses contain mostly plastic. Adult birds are all found with a stomach full of plastic as well. We are learning about marine debris and how it is effecting this sensitive ecosystem. We are currently brainstorming some action we can take to help raise awareness about plastic production, use, and disposal.