ANDEAN CONDOR
Vultur gryphus
This is the largest species of raptor on the planet. They have the second-largest wingspan of any bird, at around 3.2 metres. Along with their impressive wingspan, Andean condors can ascend to heights of up to 5,500 metres, passing over the peaks of the Andes. Due to their large wingspan, these birds can glide on air currents with ease without expelling much energy. Andean condors are a species of vulture, and like many vulture species they scavenge much of their diet from dying or deceased animals, chomping down around 6.8 kilograms of carrion (dead or decaying flesh) in a single meal. The Andean condor has a long life span of around 50 years in the wild and up to 80 years in captivity.