Which feeding technique do Wandering Albatrosses primarily employ rather than deep diving?
Answer
Patrolling or skimming the water surface
Wandering Albatrosses are specialized surface feeders, utilizing a style that minimizes physical exertion relative to the potential caloric return from oceanic life. They are distinguished from deep-diving seabirds by their preference for surface engagement, employing techniques described as 'patrolling' or 'skimming.' This involves gliding low over the water, scanning visually or using cues from other birds to locate prey aggregated near the air-sea interface. When they approach prey, they often steady themselves by patting the water with their feet, reaching down only to snatch the meal from the surface film or just below it, rarely requiring full immersion.
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