Saturday, June 19 will mark the second annual World Albatross Day, an event organized by the Agreement for the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels to raise consciousness about the struggles we Marru (the name by which we albatrosses refer to ourselves) face for our survival. There are 22 species of albatrosses in the world. Most of us are endangered, many critically endangered. Last year’s event highlighted the urgent efforts to eradicate introduced pests like rodents and cats on islands that serve as nesting grounds for albatrosses and petrels, while this year’s World Albatross Day will focus on the need for sustainable commercial fishing practices that do not harm seabirds.

Every wild creature deserves a day of celebration, but we Marru are very grateful to the humans who have organized this day for our benefit.