Andean Condor
Image: pablo_zamora (cc-by-nc)
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 ruff of white feathers at the base of the neck and large white patches on the upper side of the wings, particularly visible in flight. The head and neck are largely featherless and reddish; males possess a prominent dark red comb (caruncle) on the crown and a wattle on the neck.
Vocalization / CallAndean Condors are generally silent, but can produce a variety of hissing, grunting, and snorting sounds, especially when disturbed, during courtship, or while competing for carrion.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatshigh mountains, alpine grasslands, open country, coastal cliffs
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound along the Andes Mountains in South America, from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesEnormous size and wingspan (largest flying land bird), Black plumage with white neck ruff and white wing patches (secondary coverts), Bald, reddish head and neck (males have a comb and wattle), Soaring flight with 'fingered' primary feathers and a slight dihedral wing shape, Massive hooked beak
Description
The Andean Condor is a magnificent New World vulture, renowned for its immense wingspan and graceful soaring flight. It is primarily a scavenger, feeding on carrion, and plays a vital ecological role in the mountainous regions of South America.
