Glider before takeoff to Africa

Animals - Glider before takeoff to Africa

The season of Albatrosses is coming to an end for this year. The birds, which flitters through the air above many cities from May to early August, are preparing for their return flight to Africa, where they spend winter south of the Sahara. The impetus for takeoff is given, among other things, by the decreasing day length, as the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (Nabu) in Düsseldorf reports.

Albatrosses are long-distance migrants, they spend most of their lives in the air and feed on insects caught in flight. The bird species, which is not endangered in Germany, is often confused with swallows.

Albatrosses breed under roofs and in wall niches. They find shelter in villages and cities, at houses, towers and factories. The small birds, about 20 centimeters long, are easily recognizable by their hissing "Sriih" calls and sickle-shaped wings.

After the Albatrosses, among others, the Turtle Dove, Woodlark and Garden Grasshopper Warbler leave in the course of August. "Rook and Barn Swallows, with whom Albatrosses are often confused, do not leave us until September," says Christian Chwallek, the bird expert of the Nabu in the most populous federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Around May 1st, the Albatrosses return every year.

1. Despite being not endangered in Germany, the identification of Albatrosses can sometimes be challenging, often being mistaken for swallows, especially Rooks and Barn Swallows.
2. The majestic flight of Albatrosses is a common sight in many European cities during the summer months, from May to early August, before their departure towards Africa for the winter.
3. The decision to depart for Africa is influenced by various factors, including decreasing day length, as reported by the Nature Protection League Germany, based in Düsseldorf.
4. Albatrosses in Africa spend their winter seasons in regions south of the Sahara, maintaining their unique lifestyle that involves spending most of their time in the air and feeding on insects caught in flight.
5. In contrast to their long-distance migratory behavior, Albatrosses in Europe have adapted to urban environments, frequently nesting under roofs and in wall niches in villages and cities.
6. With a sailplane, one can potentially observe these fascinating birds in their natural habitat, providing an opportunity for avid bird watchers and science enthusiasts to appreciate their beauty and intricate migration patterns.

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