Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
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Two Andean condors, a male and a female, have settled in the old territory of the Moscow Zoo, which is under the jurisdiction of the capital Department of CultureThese are the largest living birds of prey and are native to the Andes mountain range of South America.
Visitors can observe condors in the "Rock of Prey" exhibit aviary, which features an artificial mountain with numerous grottoes and balconies. The adjacent aviary is home to golden eagles, imperial eagles, and steppe eagles.
The female was the first to move into the exhibit, and a little later, the male joined her. Their enclosure includes a house, log stumps, perches, and nesting niches for future offspring. A pool with running water was also provided for the birds. The South American birds' diet includes beef, rats, and quail.
"The birds are currently undergoing a period of adaptation to each other, and both condors are very cautious. They interact with each other during feeding times. The rest of the time, the female prefers to stay in a niche at the top of a cliff or a tree. The male, meanwhile, spends most of his time below, exploring the enclosure. He can be easily identified by the large, dark red crest on his head," said Svetlana Akulova, General Director of the Moscow Zoo.
The Andean condor is the largest living bird of prey. Its body length ranges from 117 to 135 centimeters, and its wingspan ranges from 274 to 310 centimeters. Males weigh 11–15 kilograms, while females weigh 7.5–11 kilograms. Their plumage is black, except for a white fluffy ruff around the neck and wide white stripes on the wings, which are more common in males.
This species is listed as "near threatened" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is also considered a long-lived bird. The lifespan of this species in the wild is approximately 50 years, and in zoos, up to 70 years.
Andean condors live in separate pairs their entire lives, preferring to remain well apart. During the breeding season, the male performs a courtship dance: he inflates and stretches his neck, puffs out his chest, and hisses. After this, he spreads his wings and freezes in front of the female, emitting loud sounds. During this process, the male's scalp changes color from pale pink to bright yellow.
Moscow Zoo
The Moscow Zoo is considered one of the leading and most respected zoological institutions not only in Russia but also internationally. Its 161-year history serves as a testament to its commitment to science, education, and conservation. During this time, the zoo has evolved from a zoo displaying exotic animals to a major research, conservation, and educational center.
In 2025, the Moscow Zoo set a world record for the number of animal species represented. It is home to over 1,250 species, including rare, endangered, and exotic ones from all corners of the planet. This record is the result of decades of work by zoologists, veterinarians, keepers, and everyone who cares for the animals every day.
The Moscow Zoo consists of an urban area, a bird rehabilitation and adaptation center in Sokolniki, a center for the reproduction of rare animal species in the Moscow region, and a zoo in the estate of Father Frost in Veliky Ustyug.
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