Mōlī (Laysan Albatross) are a special attraction on the North Shore of Kauaʻi.  Other than on Kuaihelani (Midway Atoll), this is the only place in the world where m­ōlī nest among humans.

Here are some interesting facts about Mōlī:

• Mōlī come to Kauaʻi from the Pacific Ocean off Alaska.  They arrive on Kauaʻi in early November, and the last chick fledges in late July.

• Mō­lī only come to terra firma to mate and breed.  Otherwise, the birds are either on the surface of the ocean to eat, or on the wing.

• Mōlī can lock their wings in place and turn off parts of their brains for bursts of time, allowing them to sleep while flying.

• A mōlī is the oldest known wild bird. “Wisdom” was fitted with a tracking band in 1956 when she was at least 6 years old. She is a member of the Kuaihelani colony. Wisdom’s most recent chick hatched in 2025.

Mōlī feel at home in North Shore communities because we give them space, leash our dogs, keep our cats inside, and drive slower during nesting season.  Please be aware and extra careful as the birds are liable to rest and land anywhere, including the road. It is all our kuleana (responsibility) to help keep them safe.

Mahalo for your kōkua (assistance/support)!

To learn more:

• View more content on our website and blog.

• Visit the Kauaʻi Albatross Network.

Photo Credits: Hob Osterlund (top) and Mark Simone (bottom collage).