The Andes Mountain Range runs the length of Western South America, making it the longest range on Earth. Along the length of the range lies the preferred habitat of the largest flying land bird in the world, a scavenger of the New World vulture family, called the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus). These birds are absolutely massive, and, though rare, may be seen soaring the thermals in the upper reaches of the mountains, and high above canyons trying to catch the scent of carrion, their sole food.
Description of One of the Largest Flying Birds in the World
Andean Condors are tremendous vultures, and they have the overall appearance and body shape of many other species of the genus Vultur. They are, however, more powerfully built than most vultures, and appear muscular, like hawks or eagles, as they are not as scraggly and slender looking as other vultures. Andean condors are black, with white rings around the neck, and white patches on the wings (which are more prominent in males). These giant vultures have bald heads, which are made of dark gray and red skin. The adult males have large combs on top of their heads, and waddles under their necks. Male Andean condors have heads that look similar to those of tom (male) wild turkeys, except the vultures' heads are larger, and have hooked bills, like those of hawks.
Size of Andean Condors
Andean condors are some of the largest birds in the world that fly, and, although their smaller vulture relatives to the north, California condors, are often mistaken for small planes, these South American birds are more deserving of the error. The wingspan of Andean condors can reach about 11 feet, and their bodies (measured from beak to tail) can grow to over five feet in length. South American condors can weigh up to about 33 lbs.
Habitat and Distribution of the Andean Condor
Andean condors are found throughout the Andes Mountains, and in neighboring areas as well. They have an established presence in Northern Columbia and have been seen in Venezuela, and they may also be found in Central Bolivia, but their main range runs from Southern Columbia, through Western Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and all of Chile. They prefer higher altitudes, where they can be spotted soaring as they try to catch the scent of dead, rotting animals. Andean condors live in mountainous prairie regions, as well as open grasslands near mountains, and in the desert areas that are found near the Andes. They may also be found in lower elevations along the coasts of Peru and Chile. One of the best spots to see these birds flying is in Colca Canyon, Peru.
These birds are truly majestic. They are tremendous and unique, as they are very different from even the California condors to the north. Although they are rare, Andean condors have a huge range that spans the length of Western South America.
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