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Andean Condor

The Andean condor (*Vultur gryphus*) is a South American New World vulture and the only living member of the genus *Vultur*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Andean condor (*Vultur gryphus*) is a South American New World vulture and the only living member of the genus *Vultur*. It is one of the largest flying birds in the world, found in the Andes and adjacent Pacific coasts of western South America. The species is a scavenger and is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

Taxonomy and classification

The Andean condor is a New World vulture in the family Cathartidae and is the only living species in the genus *Vultur*. Its scientific name is *Vultur gryphus*.

Description

The species is a very large soaring bird with a wingspan reaching about 3.3 m. Males are larger than females and have a prominent comb on the head that females lack.

Distribution and habitat

Andean condors inhabit the Andes mountains and nearby Pacific coastal areas of western South America. They are most closely associated with high elevations, cliffs, open grasslands, and mountain valleys.

Ecology and behaviour

Andean condors are scavengers that feed mainly on carrion. They rely on thermals and updrafts to travel long distances with minimal wing flapping.

Conservation and cultural significance

The species has suffered population declines and is listed as Vulnerable. It also holds cultural and national-symbol status in several South American countries.

Key facts

  • The Andean condor is the only extant species in the genus *Vultur*.
  • It is among the largest flying birds and is often described as the largest bird of prey by wingspan.
  • The species ranges across high Andean regions from Colombia and Venezuela to Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Tierra del Fuego.
  • Andean condors feed primarily on carrion and use rising air currents to soar over mountains and valleys.
  • Its conservation status changed to Vulnerable in 2020 due to population decline.
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Canadian context

The Andean condor has no native range in Canada, but it is relevant to Canadian readers through zoo collections, wildlife conservation education, and comparative bird studies.

Frequently asked questions

What is the scientific name of the Andean condor?
Its scientific name is *Vultur gryphus*.
Where do Andean condors live?
They live in the Andes mountains and adjacent Pacific coastal regions of western South America.
What do Andean condors eat?
They are scavengers that mainly feed on carrion.
How big is an Andean condor?
It can reach a wingspan of about 3.3 m and is among the largest flying birds.
What is its conservation status?
The species is listed as Vulnerable.
Why is the Andean condor important culturally?
It is a national bird or national symbol in several South American countries and has long been associated with Andean culture.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andean_condor
    Supports: Scientific name, range, size, and Vulnerable status change in 2020.
  2. The Peregrine Fund — https://www.peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/vultures/andean-condor
    Supports: Range, sexual dimorphism, and national bird status in several South American countries.
  3. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/facts/andean-condor
    Supports: Scientific name and general description as a massive soaring bird.
  4. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance — https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/andean-condor
    Supports: Size, habitat, cultural significance, and distribution.
  5. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/condor
    Supports: Classification as a large New World vulture and relationship to other condors.