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Endangered Condors Face Fragile Existence in Andes
Condors were considered sacred by the Incans who believed they could communicate with the world of the gods. | Photo: Reuters
Published 7 August 2019
Andean condors were revered by the Incas, but now face a fragile future in South America and are in danger of extinction.
Condors, one of the world's largest flying birds, part of the vulture family, are in danger of extinction, warned experts Tuesday.
The majestic birds, which can have a wingspan of up to 3.3 meters, are the national emblem of almost all Andean countries and the central figure of Ecuador's coat of arms, as in Bolivia, Colombia, Chile and Peru.
Their story has become tragic due to human activity, which has caused the population to decline to critical levels in countries such as Colombia and Ecuador, while in Venezuela their presence is almost nil.
It is difficult to know the total population. Some studies estimate there are between 5,000 and 6,500 birds distributed throughout the Andean mountain range, with a greater presence in Argentina and Chile, with fewer in Bolivia and Peru.
More:
https://www.telesurenglish.net/news/Endangered-Condors-Face-Fragile-Existence-in-Andes-20190807-0019.html#