Salt Excretion by Nasal Gland of Laysan and Black-Footed Albatrosses

Abstract

Excretion of a liquid which dripped from the tip of the beak followed administration of salt loads. The Na+ concentration in the liquid was 792 to 856 milliequivalents per liter, almost twice that in sea water. The nasal gland may thus enable these birds to meet their need for water by drinking sea water.