In the absence of males, female Laysan Albatrosses team up to raise their young in Oahu, Hawaii

At present, at least 31 per cent of the nests are built by female-female pairs. In these same sex pairs, at least one offspring is genetically related to each female indicating that both had reproduced. Unrelated same sex pairs participating in co-operative breeding are rare and the result of a dangerously skewed sex ratio. Though the birds have found a temporary solution, there is need for urgent action to ensure that the sex ratios are balanced and healthy.

February 2009