Dunedin heralds the return of the Royal Albatross

The return of the Royal Albatross heralds the start of spring in Dunedin, and when the first bird touches down at the Taiaroa Head colony for the new breeding season, church bells will ring for 30 minutes.

Last year the first bird landed on September 19. Dunedin has the only mainland albatross colony in the world and the royal is the largest of these exceptional birds. Visitors can see the birds up close, and at the Royal Albatross Centre they can learn about their lifecycle, as well as the history and other wildlife of the area. Guided eco-tours of the albatross colony and surrounds are available.

Contact: (03) 478 0499

www.albatross.org.nz