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 white ruff of fluffy feathers at the base of the neck. Males and some females also display large white patches on the upper side of the wings, which are particularly noticeable in flight. The head and neck are largely featherless and reddish-pink, with males possessing a prominent dark red comb and wattle.
Vocalization / CallAndean Condors are generally silent, lacking a true syrinx. They communicate through various hissing and grunting sounds, especially when interacting at a carcass or during courtship displays.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, grassland, open areas, cliffs
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of South America, its range extends from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. They typically inhabit high elevations, often near rocky cliffs for nesting and roosting.
Identifying Featuresextremely large size, white neck ruff, white wing patches (especially males), bare reddish head and neck, soaring flight with finger-like primary feathers, prominent comb on male's head
Description
The Andean Condor is a magnificent New World vulture, renowned for its immense size and impressive soaring abilities. It primarily feeds on carrion, playing a crucial role as a scavenger in its ecosystem. These birds are among the world's largest flying land birds, often seen gliding effortlessly on thermal currents.
