An Andean condor photographed at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo in Florida
An Andean condor photographed at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo in Florida
Photograph by Joel Sartore, National Geographic Photo Ark

Andean Condor

Andean condors are massive birds, among the largest in the world that are able to fly. Because they are so heavy (up to 33 pounds), even their enormous 10-foot wingspan needs some help to keep them aloft. For that reason, these birds prefer to live in windy areas where they can glide on air currents with little effort. Andean condors are found in mountainous regions, as their name suggests, but also live near coasts replete with ocean breezes and even deserts that feature strong thermal air currents.

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