Albatrosses glide for hours over the ocean, using wind rising off the waves to stay aloft.

The longer version

Wind shear above the wave crests supplies the lift these birds harvest. Because air moves faster higher up, they can climb into faster air, turn downwind, drop into slower air and turn back, regaining height each loop with almost no flapping.

Long narrow wings give high efficiency at moderate speed, and a shoulder tendon locks the wing open so muscle effort stays minimal. The trade is poor take-off and landing performance on flat ground. A keen sense of smell locates scattered prey, while salt glands above the eyes handle swallowed seawater. Some trips take several days, covering great distances without ever touching land.

Where this entry sits

Oceans and Sea Life looks at the salt water that covers most of the planet, from crashing waves and tides to the darkest deep-sea trenches. Expect notes on coral, fish, whales, sharks, jellyfish, shells, and the strange creatures that live far below the surface. The full list sits on the Oceans and Sea Life page, where every entry is listed in order.