Andean Condor
NameAndean Condor
Common NameAndean Condor
Scientific NameVultur gryphus
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)300
Length (cm)115
Weight (g)11500
Plumage DetailsAdults are predominantly black with a distinctive fluffy white ruff of feathers at the base of the neck. They also feature large white patches on the upper side of the wings, particularly visible in flight. The head and neck are bare, typically reddish-pink, and males possess a prominent dark red comb on the crown.
Vocalization / CallAndean Condors are generally silent, but can produce a variety of hisses, grunts, and snorts, especially when interacting with other condors or when agitated around food sources.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, grassland, rocky areas, alpine
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound along the Andes mountain range in South America, from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesEnormous size and wingspan, Black plumage with a prominent white neck ruff, Large white patches on the upper side of the wings, Bare, reddish-pink head and neck (males have a comb), Characteristic soaring flight pattern
Description
The Andean Condor is a magnificent New World vulture, renowned for its immense size and impressive wingspan. It is primarily a scavenger, soaring gracefully on thermal currents high above the rugged terrain of the Andes mountains in search of carrion.
