Layson Albatross Returns to the Ocean
March 20, 2025
Now that’s an adventure! Recently, the PAWS Wildlife team went aboard a U.S. Coast Guard vessel to release a Laysan Albatross back into its natural habitat. This incredible bird first came into our care a few weeks ago after being discovered as a stowaway aboard a ship in the Port of Olympia.
Once the bird was in our care, our veterinary team discovered an old injury on one of its feet, which had developed an infection. To prevent further complications, they performed a procedure to remove the affected toe bone. Over time, the infection resolved, and the albatross began using the limb again.
Our rehabilitation team worked hard to encourage the bird to eat on its own, provided a specialized pool setup for plenty of water time, and administered medications to support healing. And once the bird was fully recovered, it was time for release!
Since Laysan Albatrosses rely on open ocean habitats, strong winds, and access to surface-dwelling prey like squid, we partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard District 13 – Sector Puget Sound to help us transport the bird offshore from La Push, Washington. From there, our team got the bird back on the water where it belongs.
A huge thank you to the U.S. Coast Guard Station Quillayute River and U.S. Coast Guard Station Sector Puget Sound for helping make this incredible release possible!