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Background and Research Aims: Native vertebrate scavenger communities may be affected by free-ranging dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), but little information is available on this subject. We aimed to evaluate the influence of free-ranging dogs on a community of native vertebrate scavengers and to propose management and conservation actions. Methods: Between November 2014 and June 2016, we systematically monitored 37 ungulate carcasses in the buffer zone of Antisana National Park, Andes of Ecuador at an elevation range between 3000 and 4150 m asl. We monitored carcasses with camera traps operating 24 hours per day. Results: We obtained 1010 independent events and recorded seven vertebrate scavenger species. Free-ranging dogs were present at carcasses for 40.39% of the total activity time, but the most frequently recorded species were the Andean fox (Lycalopex culpaeus) and the Carunculated Caracara (Phalcoboenus carunculatus). The scavenging birds were diurnal, the Andean fox was mostly nocturnal, and the free-ranging dogs were active in all periods of the day. Native scavenger species changed their peak of activity to times when the free-ranging dogs were less active, probably to avoid agonistic encounters. The presence of free-ranging dogs negatively influenced the number of independent events of the native species. Conclusion: The presence of free-ranging dogs showed a negative relationship with the residence time and the number of independent events of native scavenging species. Furthermore, their presence modified the hour of the peak in the activity patterns of the scavenger community. Implications for Conservation: The presence of free-ranging dogs may have important implications for the conservation of the Vulnerable Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) in Ecuador. To achieve the conservation goals of native vertebrate scavengers, particularly of Andean Condors, it is necessary to develop environmental education programs, provide technical training in responsible dog ownership, and conduct campaigns to sterilize and control dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) is the largest scavenger in South America. This predatory bird plays a crucial role in their ecological niche by removing carcasses. We report the first metagenomic analysis of the Andean condor gut microbiome. Methods: This work analyzed shotgun metagenomics data from a mixture of fifteen captive Chilean Andean condors. To filter eukaryote contamination, we employed BWA-MEM v0.7. Taxonomy assignment was performed using Kraken2 and MetaPhlAn v2.0 and all filtered reads were assembled using IDBA-UD v1.1.3. The two most abundant species were used to perform a genome reference-guided assembly using MetaCompass. Finally, we performed a gene prediction using Prodigal and each gene predicted was functionally annotated. InterproScan v5.31-70.0 was additionally used to detect homology based on protein domains and KEGG mapper software for reconstructing metabolic pathways. Results: Our results demonstrate concordance with the other gut microbiome data from New World vultures. In the Andean condor, Firmicutes was the most abundant phylum present, with Clostridium perfringens, a potentially pathogenic bacterium for other animals, as dominating species in the gut microbiome. We assembled all reads corresponding to the top two species found in the condor gut microbiome, finding between 94% to 98% of completeness for Clostridium perfringens and Plesiomonas shigelloides, respectively. Our work highlights the ability of the Andean condor to act as an environmental reservoir and potential vector for critical priority pathogens which contain relevant genetic elements. Among these genetic elements, we found 71 antimicrobial resistance genes and 1,786 virulence factors that we associated with several adaptation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) is the largest scavenger in South America. This predatory bird plays a crucial role in their ecological niche by removing carcasses. We report the first metagenomic analysis of the Andean condor gut microbiome. Methods This work analyzed shotgun metagenomics data from a mixture of fifteen captive Chilean Andean condors. To filter eukaryote contamination, we employed BWA-MEM v0.7. Taxonomy assignment was performed using Kraken2 and MetaPhlAn v2.0 and all filtered reads were assembled using IDBA-UD v1.1.3. The two most abundant species were used to perform a genome reference-guided assembly using MetaCompass. Finally, we performed a gene prediction using Prodigal and each gene predicted was functionally annotated. InterproScan v5.31-70.0 was additionally used to detect homology based on protein domains and KEGG mapper software for reconstructing metabolic pathways. Results Our results demonstrate concordance with the other gut microbiome data from New World vultures. In the Andean condor, Firmicutes was the most abundant phylum present, with Clostridium perfringens, a potentially pathogenic bacterium for other animals, as dominating species in the gut microbiome. We assembled all reads corresponding to the top two species found in the condor gut microbiome, finding between 94% to 98% of completeness for Clostridium perfringens and Plesiomonas shigelloides, respectively. Our work highlights the ability of the Andean condor to act as an environmental reservoir and potential vector for critical priority pathogens which contain relevant genetic elements. Among these genetic elements, we found 71 antimicrobial resistance genes and 1,786 virulence factors that we associated with several adaptation processes.

Background and Research Aims: Native vertebrate scavenger communities may be affected by free-ranging dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), but little information is available on this subject. We aimed to evaluate the influence of free-ranging dogs on a community of native vertebrate scavengers and to propose management and conservation actions. Methods: Between November 2014 and June 2016, we systematically monitored 37 ungulate carcasses in the buffer zone of Antisana National Park, Andes of Ecuador at an elevation range between 3000 and 4150 m asl. We monitored carcasses with camera traps operating 24 hours per day. Results: We obtained 1010 independent events and recorded seven vertebrate scavenger species. Free-ranging dogs were present at carcasses for 40.39% of the total activity time, but the most frequently recorded species were the Andean fox (Lycalopex culpaeus) and the Carunculated Caracara (Phalcoboenus carunculatus). The scavenging birds were diurnal, the Andean fox was mostly nocturnal, and the free-ranging dogs were active in all periods of the day. Native scavenger species changed their peak of activity to times when the free-ranging dogs were less active, probably to avoid agonistic encounters. The presence of free-ranging dogs negatively influenced the number of independent events of the native species. Conclusion: The presence of free-ranging dogs showed a negative relationship with the residence time and the number of independent events of native scavenging species. Furthermore, their presence modified the hour of the peak in the activity patterns of the scavenger community. Implications for Conservation: The presence of free-ranging dogs may have important implications for the conservation of the Vulnerable Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) in Ecuador. To achieve the conservation goals of native vertebrate scavengers, particularly of Andean Condors, it is necessary to develop environmental education programs, provide technical training in responsible dog ownership, and conduct campaigns to sterilize and control dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The breeding season is the most vulnerable period in the early stages of the life cycle of seabirds, due to the exposure of their eggs and chicks to the impact by predators. Most of the studies on predator–prey relationships between the Black-browed albatross (Thalassarche melanophrys) and other predators like raptors, were carried out in breeding colonies located in oceanic and highly isolated areas, such as Antarctic islands. However, breeding colonies located in the Sub-Antarctic fjords have not been studied. The geographical position of the study colony makes it susceptible to a wider spectrum of predators than the oceanic islands. Therefore, it is unknown how predation dynamics affect the reproductive success of this species. Here, we show for the first time the identity and activity of avian native predators on the colony in the inner waters of southern Tierra del Fuego, Chile. This study covered seventeen field visits between 2017 and 2020 to monitor the reproductive activity of this colony. In this study, we identified the interaction between predators, the breeding activity and success of albatrosses using direct census and camera traps. Across the study, the number of breeding pairs ranged from 64 (2017) to three (2019) breeding pairs of the Black-browed albatross. Terrestrial birds with occurrence on the colony were the Andean condor, Southern caracara, Chimango caracara and the Turkey vulture. Our results showed that the main avian predator species affecting the breeding success of the Black-browed albatross, were both the Andean condor and the Southern caracara. The Black-browed albatross is a conservation target in this area since of the colony of Islote Albatros is currently part of the Seno Almirantazgo Marine protected area. Therefore, baseline informations on species interactions are fundamental for its management particularly when native predators like the Andean condor are also threatened species globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic waste disposals are a valuable food source for vultures. However, some negative collateral effects may result from their use. I documented Andean Condors' (Vultur gryphus) use of a feeding station, which was established in central Chile to reduce risks associated with condors' use of landfills. I also evaluated the changes in that use over time. The feeding station was in place between 2010 and 2016, from July to December, which are the months with the lowest food availability and the highest presence of condors at the landfill. Between 2010 and 2012, the daily maximum abundances were 85, 72, and 82 condors each respective year. In 2013, the daily maximum abundance peaked at 146 condors, but abundance subsequently decreased until 2016, possibly due to the availability of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) carcasses associated with an outbreak of myxomatosis. The abundance of the four sex/age classes was highest for immature females, followed by adult females, immature males, and adult males. This contrasts with counts in areas not associated with a predictable source of food, where adult males are the most numerous (Pavez and Estades (2016), Journal of Raptor Research 50:23–32). The high proportion of immature females at the feeding station may reflect a feeding strategy that compensates for their lower social status and foraging effectiveness. Given the current situation in Chile, with the reduction of natural food sources and subsequent increasing use of landfills by condors, it is important to evaluate the use of feeding stations as a management tool during certain times and places. Los vertederos de basura orgánica son una valiosa fuente de alimento para buitres, pero su uso también puede resultar en algunos efectos colaterales negativos. En este artículo documento el uso de un punto de alimentación por parte de Vultur gryphus, que fue establecido en Chile central para reducir el riesgo asociado al uso de vertederos por cóndores, y evalúo los cambios en su uso a través del tiempo. El punto de alimentación funcionó entre 2010 y 2016, entre julio y diciembre, meses con baja disponibilidad de alimento y alta presencia de cóndores en el vertedero. Desde 2010 a 2012 la abundancia diaria máxima fue de 85, 72, y 82 cóndores cada año, respectivamente. En 2013 la abundancia máxima alcanzó un pico de 146, decreciendo posteriormente hasta 2016, posiblemente por la disponibilidad de carcasas de conejo europeo (Oryctolagus cuniculus) asociadas a un brote de mixomatosis. La abundancia de clases de sexo/edad fue máxima para las hembras inmaduras, seguidas por las hembras adultas, machos inmaduros y machos adultos. Esto contrasta con conteos hechos en áreas no asociadas a recursos alimenticios predecibles, donde los machos adultos son los más numerosos (Pavez y Estades 2016, Journal of Raptor Research 50:23–32). La alta proporción de hembras inmaduras en el punto de alimentación podría reflejar una estrategia de alimentación que compensa su baja posición social y efectividad para obtener alimento. Considerando el escenario actual en Chile, con una reducción de fuentes naturales de alimento y el subsecuente incremento en el uso de vertederos por cóndores, es importante evaluar el uso de puntos de alimentación como herramienta de gestión durante ciertos momentos y lugares. [Traducción del autor editada] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article explores the Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) is a culturally iconic wildlife symbol for the South American Andes, but is naturally found at very low population densities, and is increasingly threatened. Using the Range Wide Priority Setting methodology, we (a group of 38 Andean Condor experts) updated the Andean Condor historical range (3,230,061 km2 ), systematized 9998 Andean Condor distribution points.

Massive deaths of Andean condors (Vultur gryphus) prompted a National Strategy Against the Use of Toxic Baits in Argentina, based on 6 lines of action: 1) delivery of kits and unified intervention protocols in cases of wildlife poisoning, 2) community education programs, 3) surveys of rural people, 4) training courses and participatory construction workshops, 5) toxicology studies, and 6) an academic-scientific committee made up of specialists in toxicology. The strategy was developed in the 14 provinces of the country where the Andean condor is distributed. 554 people from 166 institutions have participated in the trainings and workshops, reporting 200 poisoning events involving more than 21000 individuals from 61 species. Birds and mammals were the groups most affected, and further, human victims show the impact on public health. 19 toxic substances were identified, mainly insecticides. This study proved that carbofuran is the toxic most used. Analysis of bait types suggests a significant conflict with carnivores. 195 surveys revealed that almost half of the farmers know people who use toxic baits and that the negative perception towards some species could determine their use. The strategy began to address the problem of the use of toxic baits in Argentina in a strategic, participatory and regional way, through the management of public policies and scientific research. We propose actions to work on the causes that lead to the application of this dangerous practice. Given its extensive use, we believe that this strategy can be adapted and applied in other countries in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses mixed-sex phenotype of Andean Patagonia. Topics discussed include association of hormonal imbalance with naturally occurring abnormalities; growing evidence that many anthropogenic contaminants are able to alter steroid sex hormone biosynthesis; and cases of environmentally induced sex reversal among Andean Condors.

Interspecific competition plays a central role in structuring ecological communities and is a particularly strong force among avian scavengers. Niche partitioning among scavengers has been thoroughly investigated for Old World vultures (family Accipitridae), yet we know much less about its effect on the structure and functioning of the complex scavenger guilds of the New World (family Cathartidae). We studied how niche partitioning differed between ecosystems featuring species-poor and species-rich guilds of avian scavengers in South America. We compared dietary overlap between avian scavenger assemblages at two sites in Argentina where Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus) reside: Patagonia, featuring a rich guild of five main avian scavengers, and the High Andes, with only two main species of avian scavengers. We compared the δ13C and δ15N isotopic signatures, proxies for animal diets, of molted feathers to quantify niche breadth for individual species, and niche overlap between species. We found greater isotopic overlap between species and a smaller niche breadth for Andean Condors in Patagonia, where the richest assemblage of scavengers exists. These site-level differences in niche size and overlap are likely a result of greater isotopic diversity of ungulate prey around our sampling area in the High Andes, and future research should test this potential mechanism. The smaller niche breadth and greater isotopic overlap for the Andean Condor in Patagonia could signify competitive interactions with other scavengers and negative population-level effects for this species of conservation concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ornitologia Colombiana is the property of Asociacion Colombiana de Ornitologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Summary: The framing of environmental conservation has been changing, mainly towards a reconciliation between human needs and nature conservation. A major challenge of biosphere reserves (BRs) is the integration of biodiversity conservation and the sustainable development of local communities. Although these areas are large, they are often not large enough to contain the movements of wide-ranging species. We studied immature Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) movements to evaluate their habitat use in relation to protected areas (PAs). We particularly aimed to determine whether BRs significantly increase the protection of this wide-ranging species. We analysed the movement overlap of 26 GPS-tagged birds with the PAs of Patagonia, and we evaluated preferences for particular landscape categories with a use–availability design. Condors were mainly located in unprotected areas (56.4%), whereas 26.4% of locations were within International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) PAs and 17.2% of locations were in BRs (not including IUCN PAs). When compared to availability, birds preferred BRs over other areas, highlighting the importance of BRs in protecting species that forage in humanized areas. However, the lack of controls and management policies expose condors to several threats, such as poisoning and persecution, in both private lands and BRs. Implementing strict management practices for BRs will help to conserve wide-ranging scavengers that feed in humanized areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I report human-caused mortality of Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus) in Peru and number of individuals used in Yawar Fiesta celebrations from data collected between 2000 and 2017. From 2014 to 2017, 8 (7 adults and 1 juvenile) Andean Condors were killed and 5 were permanently injured due to poisoning and shooting in central and south Peru. Another 4 individuals were released after being rehabilitated. In all, 40 different individuals (14 males, 20 females, and 6 not determined) were used for Yawar Fiesta celebrations; 96% of these celebrations were held in the Apurimac department in southern Peru. One individual died and 3 were seriously injured after being trampled by bulls during celebrations. Direct and indirect poisoning was the highest cause of mortality in this country. However, given that Yawar Fiesta celebrations are not monitored by government officials and/or researchers, mortality of Andean Condors is higher than reported here. Yawar Fiesta celebrations might have altered the Andean Condor's population structure in the southern Peruvian Andes. In order to guarantee Andean Condor conservation in Peru, local and national government authorities should regulate and forbid the use of Andean Condors in Yawar Fiesta celebrations, while population size and structure of Andean Condors in Apurimac should be assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses threats of shooting and deliberate or accidental poisoning on conservation status of California Condor and the Andean Condor species. Topics discussed include report on large Andean Condor aggregations at observer-established carcasses in Bolivia; social foraging for avian scavengers; and need to develop a national action plan to educate the public and to regulate the possession, commercialization, and use of poisonous or toxic substances in Bolivia.

Wildlife persecution due to human-wildlife conflict has become a serious concern for biodiversity conservation, especially for many endangered species. In this context, conservation approaches need to consider the socio-ecological dimensions of each particular situation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the existence, extent and social characteristics of Human-Raptor Conflicts (HRC) in the Southern Yungas region in northwestern Argentina. We conducted 115 semi-structured interviews in 21 sites and analyzed attitudes and associations between sociodemographic variables and the existence of HRC. Forty percent of interviewees showed negative attitudes towards raptors, mainly with those species considered livestock predators rather than poultry predators. A total of 11 species were regarded as conflictive because of predation on domestic animals, of which Andean condors showed the highest conflict. The only socio-demographic factor affecting conflicts was livestock and poultry rearing, independently of age, gender and occupation of interviewees. The fact that only 8.7% of interviewees reported taking direct actions towards conflictive species indicates a relatively peaceful coexistence of people with raptors. Nevertheless, negative attitudes towards Andean condor together with their extreme susceptibility to any increase in non-natural mortality indicate the need of an integral conservation approach to tackle future threats for this species’ conservation in the area.

The article discusses monitoring and assessing of vultures and the needs for developing standard protocols. Topics mention including the effective conservation that relies on the programmes of robust monitoring, application of a non-invasive genetic-based approach and identification of multi-locus genotypes.

Copyright of Bio-grafía. Escritos Sobre la Biología y su Enseñanza is the property of Universidad Pedaggica Nacional and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Attributes such as sex, age and pigmentation of individuals could correspond to the competitive skills they use to access resources and, consequently, determine their social status when a hierarchy of dominance is established. We analysed patterns of social dominance in relation to sex, age and, for the first time, according to face pigmentation in a large scavenger bird species, the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus). This species displays extreme sexual dimorphism, with males being up to 50% heavier than females. Associated to this, strong hierarchical relationships characterize foraging, roosting and breeding. We recorded agonistic interactions within condor groups while foraging through video recordings in experimental stations. We corroborated a strong despotism by the adult males to the rest of the categories. More interestingly we found this despotism was also expressed by most pigmented birds; juvenile females being completely subordinated and, at the same time, not expressing pigmentation. Importantly, when condors of equal sex and age category fought, the more pigmented individuals were successful. Our results highlight that pigmentation, besides sex and age, is an attribute that also corresponds with social status in the Andean condor, making its hierarchical system more complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of factors that determine the distribution of top‐scavengers at large scales can provide clues to understanding important ecological processes and may be useful in establishing conservation and management strategies. Here, we conducted a large‐scale survey to study the distribution of the threatened Andean Condor Vultur gryphus in relation to environmental factors in southern Patagonia. This area has undergone the settlement of livestock and the introduction of exotic wildlife, although to a lesser extent than in the distribution of Condors in northern Patagonia. The aim of this study was to determine the relevance of different factors such as the availability of food resources, the availability of suitable nesting and roosting places and the presence of humans on large‐scale condor distribution. Our results show that the presence of meadows was the primary factor shaping Andean Condor distribution, despite the fact that this habitat occupies only 4% of the Patagonian landscapes. However, this habitat has a high probability of herbivore presence, so Condors seem to optimize their searching. The availability of nesting and roosting cliffs also contributed to explaining the observed distributions. Our results suggest that Condor distribution in southern Patagonia is a compromise between the spatial locations of two low‐frequency habitats – meadows and cliffs. A successful Condor conservation strategy in southern Patagonia should include the protection of these habitats and the regulation of farming expansion, including the recovery of meadows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satellite telemetry is widely used to generate information on species' use of space, which contributes to meeting conservation goals. Between June 2015 and September 2016, we obtained approximately 11,000 GPS points from two adult male Andean Condors ( Vultur gryphus) that had been fitted with satellite transmitters and released in the central Andes of Peru. We used GPS coordinates and associated data to produce habitat distribution models (binomial Generalized Linear Models) from presence and pseudo-absence data of roosting sites and foraging areas visited by these individuals. The best potential habitats for Andean Condors in Peru were west of the Andes, from the border with Ecuador, south to Bolivia and Chile. Foraging areas of both individuals were at higher elevations than roosting sites (means: 3934 masl and 3356 masl, respectively). Roosting sites were in areas dominated by grasslands and agriculture, whereas foraging areas were dominated by puna grassland and brush. Conservation strategies for Andean Condors in Peru should be informed by data derived from satellite telemetry and should focus on preserving natural short vegetation above 3000 m west of the Andes for foraging and, for roosting sites, on maintaining areas free from the disturbances of road construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematological and biochemical parameters are used to assess the health of birds and to support conservation plans for threatened species, such as the Andean Condor ( Vultur gryphus). We studied 22 captive Andean Condors from the Rehabilitation Center for Raptors of the Unión de Ornitólogos of Chile to determine reference values. We measured packed cell volume, total plasma solids, and total and differential leukocyte counts; we analyzed aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase, creatinine, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, and uric acid. We found no blood parasites and no significant differences between sexes ( P > 0.05). Our results establish a baseline for hematological and serum biochemistry parameters for the Andean Condor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the relationship between scholarship and activism, considering the obligations that ethnobiologists have to the communities we work with. I begin by describing the cultural meaning of Andean condors (Vultur gryphus) in Peru through their connections to mountains and water in various forms, and the condor's role as guardian and protector. My research on condors led me to Indigenous beliefs and practices regarding sacred mountains and water, and from this to the threats against the environment posed by international mining operations. This discussion highlights questions concerning the scholar's role in situations of environmental destruction and political conflict in relation to structural violence, the mass media, and climate change. At a time when those who protect the land and water are endangered around the globe, the decisions we make while conducting research carry responsibilities for the consequences of our actions, even as these consequences ripple out beyond our specific locality and our original intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-wildlife conflicts currently represent one of the main conservation problems for wildlife species around the world. Vultures have serious conservation concerns, many of which are related to people's adverse perception about them due to the belief that they prey on livestock. Our aim was to assess local perception and the factors influencing people's perception of the largest scavenging bird in South America, the Andean condor. For this, we interviewed 112 people from Valle Fértil, San Juan province, a rural area of central west Argentina. Overall, people in the area mostly have an elementary education, and their most important activity is livestock rearing. The results showed that, in general, most people perceive the Andean condor as an injurious species and, in fact, some people recognize that they still kill condors. We identified two major factors that affect this perception, the education level of villagers and their relationship with livestock ranching. Our study suggests that conservation of condors and other similar scavengers depends on education programs designed to change the negative perception people have about them. Such programs should be particularly focused on ranchers since they are the ones who have the worst perception of these scavengers. We suggest that highlighting the central ecological role of scavengers and recovering their cultural value would be fundamental to reverse their persecution and their negative perception by people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 28-year-old female Andean condor ( Vultur gryphus) housed in an outside exhibit at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, began showing signs of weakness. Toxicosis with an anticoagulant rodenticide was suspected because its mate had died 1 day earlier from possible brodifacoum poisoning. A rapid decline in the packed cell volume, despite vitamin K1 treatment, necessitated a blood transfusion with blood from bald eagles ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Steller's sea eagles ( Haliaeetus pelagicus). Supportive therapy after transfusion included vitamin K1 (5 mg/kg IM q12h) as well as enrofloxacin, vitamin B complex, selenium and vitamin E, and subcutaneous fluids as needed. After a 39-day treatment period, a tapering dosage of vitamin K1 was initiated, and treatment ended after 17 weeks. However, 2 weeks later, the bird suffered from a potential relapse. It was successfully treated with a repeat tapering vitamin K1 regimen lasting a total of 4 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the influence of school sector (private versus state schools) and student gender on knowledge of native fauna. Our main objectives were (a) to describe the knowledge of high school students from the province of Cordoba, Argentina with respect to native animal species, (b) to determine if any exotic species (introduced or domestic) are considered native, and (c) to analyze the effects of school sector and gender on the students' knowledge of the native fauna. In total, 321 students aged 15-18 from 14 urban schools (8 state and 6 private schools) were asked to write down ten animals native to Córdoba, Argentina, in a free-list questionnaire. Relative frequencies and Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMM) were used to analyze the categorized (animal names) and continuous answers (quantity of responses, number of native animals, etc.), with the 25 most frequently mentioned species showing a predominance of native ones, of which 'Puma' ( Puma concolor) and 'Andean condor' ( Vultur gryphus) were the most prominent. An overrepresentation of mammalian species compared to other classes of chordates was also found, with high school students mentioning native and domestic species higher on the free-list. Using GLMM, we found that school sector had a significant effect on the number of native animals mentioned at both national and local levels, and on domestic and mixed species. Finally, male students mentioned more species and more native animals than their female counterparts. These findings were interpreted and discussed in light of sociocultural and traditional ecological knowledge theories, from which several implications arose related to research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildlife lead exposure is an increasing conservation threat that is being widely investigated. However, for some areas of the world (e.g., South America) and certain species, research on this subject is still scarce or only local information is available. We analyzed the extent and intensity of lead exposure for a widely distributed threatened species, the Andean Condor ( Vultur gryphus ). We conducted the study at two different scales: 1) sampling of birds received for rehabilitation or necropsy in Argentina, and 2) bibliographic review and extensive survey considering exposure event for the species' distribution in South America. Wild condors from Argentina ( n = 76) presented high lead levels consistent with both recent and previous exposure (up to 104 μg/dL blood level, mean 15.47 ± 21.21 μg/dL and up to 148.20 ppm bone level, mean 23.08 ± 31.39 ppm). In contrast, captive bred individuals -not exposed to lead contamination- had much lower lead levels (mean blood level 5.63 ± 3.08 μg/dL, and mean bone level 2.76 ± 3.06 ppm). Condors were exposed to lead throughout their entire range in continental Argentina, which represents almost sixty percent (>4000 km) of their geographical distribution. We also present evidence of lead exposure events in Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Lead poisoning is a widespread major conservation threat for the Andean Condor, and probably other sympatric carnivores from South America. The high number and wide range of Andean Condors with lead values complement the results for the California Condor and other scavengers in North America suggesting lead poisoning is a continental threat. Urgent actions are needed to reduce this poison in the wild. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) in Ecuador is classified as Critically Endangered. Before 2015, standardized and systematic estimates of geographic distribution, population size and structure were not available for this species, hampering the assessment of its current status and hindering the design and implementation of effective conservation actions. In this study, we performed the first quantitative assessment of geographic distribution, population size and population viability of Andean Condor in Ecuador. We used a methodological approach that included an ecological niche model to study geographic distribution, a simultaneous survey of 70 roosting sites to estimate population size and a population viability analysis (PVA) for the next 100 years. Geographic distribution in the form of extent of occurrence was 49 725 km2. During a two-day census, 93 Andean Condors were recorded and a population of 94 to 102 individuals was estimated. In this population, adult-to-immature ratio was 1:0.5. In the modeled PVA scenarios, the probability of extinction, mean time to extinction and minimum population size varied from zero to 100%, 63 years and 193 individuals, respectively. Habitat loss is the greatest threat to the conservation of Andean Condor populations in Ecuador. Population size reduction in scenarios that included habitat loss began within the first 15 years of this threat. Population reinforcement had no effects on the recovery of Andean Condor populations given the current status of the species in Ecuador. The population size estimate presented in this study is the lower than those reported previously in other countries where the species occur. The inferences derived from the population viability analysis have implications for Condor management in Ecuador. This study highlights the need to redirect efforts from captive breeding and population reinforcement to habitat conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Causes of admission to rehabilitation centers can provide valuable information about factors that cause mortality in the wild. We studied causes of admission to a rehabilitation center for 108 Andean Condors ( Vultur gryphus) in Chile. Seventy-nine, 28, and one condor came from central, south, and northern Chile, respectively. From central Chile, an area with high human population, the majority of condors received were adults. The most frequent causes of admission to the rehabilitation center were poisoning (52%) and collisions with power lines (13%). Seventy-two percent of the radiographed birds showed ammunition in their bodies. Almost all the condors (85%) were received during the wintering period, when condors use the lowlands, thus increasing the probability of interaction with humans. The condors admitted from southern Chile, an area with low human pressure, were mainly juveniles. The most frequently admitted birds in the south were young birds that were trapped just after fledging (68%), which made up only 4% of the cases in central Chile. There were no poisonings or collisions with power lines. Only 25% of the radiographed birds were positive for ammunition. No seasonal variation in admissions was observed, indicating that risk factors in the southern zone did not operate on a seasonal basis. The sample of birds admitted from central Chile had similar sex and age structure as the wild population, with some bias toward juveniles, in contrast with the sample from southern Chile, in which young birds dominated. In conclusion, we observed an important anthropogenic effect on causal and temporal patterns of admissions to a rehabilitation center for Andean Condors; for the segment of the population in central Chile, the mortality pressure is apparently higher than expected under natural conditions, which could promote a demographic sink in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how organisms react to natural catastrophes is of special interest for ecologists and managers because they may drive changes in species distributions and abundance and indeed cause extinctions. Particularly, explosive volcanic eruptions promote major changes in the environment forcing organisms to make decisions, first allowing them survive and then, to obtain the best balance between the costs and benefits derived from such changes. Our objective was to study the movement decisions of a large scavenger bird, the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), facing a volcanic eruption that injected millions of tons of abrasive ash into the atmosphere causing pronounced changes in the environments where these birds reside. By using a large dataset of GPS-based locations obtained before, during, and after the eruption, we explored how the ash fall and subsequent changes in livestock mortality patterns affected the movement behavior of the studied species. Interestingly, we found that the birds: 1) did not show significant changes in their home ranges, 2) reacted to the ash plume only a very short distances from it, and 3) did not change their foraging habitat preferences in accordance with the patterns of livestock mortality caused by the eruption. Our work discusses the various trade-offs that free-ranging animals perceive under conditions of natural catastrophe and how movement decisions may eventually alter fitness-related traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data were collected on general activity patterns and population characteristics of free-ranging Andean Condors Vultur gryphus in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile from July 1992 to June 1994 during 3,680 h of observation. Seasonal differences were evident in relative abundance and activity patterns. The mean number of condors sighted/ observation significantly higher in fall-winter than in spring-summer. There was a significant decrease from spring-summer to fall-winter in the percentage of observations during which we sighted solitary condors and a significant increase in the number of groups of condors. In addition, mean monthly maximum group size was significantly larger in fall-winter than spring-summer. The sex ratio (males:females ) of juveniles was significantly skewed in favor of females, and that of adults was significantly skewed in favor of males. The significantly different adult:juvenile ratio of condors visiting the park could have resulted from differences in distribution and habitat use and/or low breeding rates. Differential juvenile mortality and dispersal could also have produced skewed age and sex ratios, but more research is needed. Condor activity seemed related to wind speed. The greatest proportion of condors was observed flying in calm and low winds and less frequently in moderate to very strong winds. Temperature seemed to have an important effect on aerial activity because the greatest proportion of condors was sighted flying and soaring on warm days. Temperature and wind speed were weakly correlated.Se recolectaron datos sobre los patrones generales de actividad y caractersticas de la población del Cóndor Andino Vultur gryphus. El estudio se realizó en el Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, Chile, entre julio 1992 y junio de 1994, totalizando 3680 horas de observación. Durante el estudio fueron evidentes diferencias estacionales en los patrones de actividad y abundancia relativa de estas aves. El numero promedio de cóndores por observación durante el otoño y el invierno fue significativamente diferente al promedio observado durante la primavera y el verano. Hubo una disminución significativa desde la primavera - verano hacia el otoño - invierno en el porcentaje de observaciones de cóndores solitarios y también hubo un aumento significativo en el número de grupos de cóndores. El promedio mensual máximo del tamaño de grupo fue significativamente más alto en el otoño - invierno que en la primavera - verano. La proporción entre los sexos (machos:hembras ) en la población juvenil favoreció significativamente a las hembras, mientras que en la población adulta favoreció a los machos. Esta diferencia en la proporción entre cóndores adultos y juveniles posiblemente está relacionada con diferencias en la distribución y el uso de hábitat y/o bajas tasas de reproducción. Diferencias en las tasas de mortalidad juvenil al igual que diferencias en las tasas de dispersión también pudieron contribuir a las diferencias en proporciones entre los sexos y las edades, pero se necesitan más investigaciones al respecto. La actividad de los cóndores en el parque pareció ser dependiente de la fuerza del viento. Observamos mayores cantidades de cóndores durante días con vientos de intensidades bajas y menos durante días con vientos de intensidades altas. La temperatura ambiental también pareció influir en la actividad aérea de los cóndores ; fue más común observar a estas aves volar durante los días con temperaturas más cálidas. Hubo una correlación débil entre la intensidad del viento y la temperatura ambiental.

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Naturalistic feeding methods, such as the provision of whole carcasses to zoo animals, are potentially controversial because zoo visitors might not approve of them. However, since several species of zoo animals feed from large carcasses in the wild, this food type could benefit their welfare in captivity compared to other less-natural food types. Scavengers in particular almost exclusively live on carcasses in nature; therefore, their welfare in captivity could significantly depend on the opportunity to express behaviors related to carcass feeding. In this study, we assessed the frequency of carcass feeding for vultures in North American zoos and investigated the effect of different food types on the behavior of zoo-housed Andean condors ( Vultur gryphus). We also evaluated the opinion of North American zoo visitors about carcass feeding. Our results show that small whole carcasses (rats, rabbits) are part of the diet of vultures in most North American zoos, but large whole carcasses (ungulates) are rarely fed. Our behavioral study indicated that Andean condors appear to be more motivated to feed on more natural food types, which also seem to physically engage the birds more and occupy them longer. Most zoo visitors approved of carcass feeding for captive vultures over a range of prey animals, and the majority would also like to observe the vultures eat. Collectively, our results demonstrate that carcass feeding, particularly with larger prey, potentially enriches both zoo-housed vultures as well as the visitor experience. Zoo Biol. 34:118-129, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A species breeding in a country and feeding in other challenges conservation efforts. [•] Every day condors cross several biomes, and political and geographical barriers. [•] No standard protected area may include the area used by this species in a day. [•] Individual-level approaches integrating factors shaping movement ecology are mandatory. [•] Our results impose new challenges for cooperative international, regional and local efforts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Many birds roost communally but their patterns of use of communal roosts is generally poorly known. For conservation purposes, and to better understand communal roosting generally, it is important to know the factors that influence the size of groups at roosts. I studied the effect of age-class, number of individuals and roosting site on the patterns of variation in the size of communally roosting groups of Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus). I fitted a variance-mean relationship (Taylor's Power Law, TPL) to the number of individuals that roosted daily at seven communal roosts, and made temporal (in each roost) and spatial (among roosts) comparisons of the relationship. The abundance of individuals at a roost fitted the TPL well, both temporally and spatially. The variation in the abundance of individuals was significantly influenced by the roosting site selected, independent of the effect of the mean number of individuals. Moreover, the effect of roosting site on the variability of abundance of individuals was stronger than the effect of age-class. Accordingly, I highlight the importance of the roosting site in modulating variation in the size of groups of communally roosting individuals. This understanding of the patterns of variation in the use of communal roosts could aid in determining the importance of sites for the conservation of a species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality and availability of resources influence the geographical distribution of species. Social species need safe places to rest, meet, exchange information and obtain thermoregulatory benefits, but those places may also serve other important functions that have been overlooked in research. We use a large soaring bird that roosts communally in cliffs, the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), as a model species to elucidate whether roost locations serve as a refuge from adverse weather conditions (climatic refuge hypothesis, CRH), and/or from predators or anthropogenic disturbances (threats refuge hypothesis, TRH). The CRH predicts that communal roosts will face in the opposite direction from where storms originate, and will be located in climatically stable, low precipitation areas. The TRH predicts that communal roosts will be large, poorly accessible cliffs, located far from human-made constructions. We surveyed cliffs used as communal roosts by condors in northwestern Patagonia, and compared them with alternative non-roosting cliffs to test these predictions at local and regional scales. We conclude that communal roosting places provide refuge against climate and disturbances such as, for instance, the threats of predators (including humans). Thus, it is not only the benefits gained from being aggregated per se, but the characteristics of the place selected for roosting that may both be essential for the survival of the species. This should be considered in management and conservation plans given the current scenario of global climate change and the increase in environmental disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-dependent skewed sex ratios have been observed in bird populations, with adult males generally outnumbering females. This trend is mainly driven by higher female mortality, sometimes associated with anthropogenic factors. Despite the large amount of work on bird sex ratios, research examining the spatial stability of adult sex ratios is extremely scarce. The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) is the only bird of prey with strong sexual dimorphism favouring males (males are 30% heavier than females). By examining data from most of its South-American range, we show that while the juvenile sex ratio is balanced, or even female-skewed, the sex ratio becomes increasing male-skewed with age, with adult males outnumbering females by >20%, and, in some cases by four times more. This result is consistent across regions and independent of the nature of field data. Reasons for this are unknown but it can be hypothesized that the progressive disappearance of females may be associated with mortality caused by anthropogenic factors. This idea is supported by the asymmetric habitat use by the two sexes, with females scavenging in more humanized areas. Whatever the cause, male-skewed adult sex ratios imply that populations of this endangered scavenger face higher risks of extinction than previously believed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study on trade of feathers and body parts of Andean Condor Vulture gryphus in the city of Sacred Valley, Peru and Cusco, Peru. Topics discussed include concerns for declining population of the species due to shooting and poisoning, forms of sale of body parts and feathers of the species including bone flutes and single decorated feather, and source areas for feathers such as Cordillera Vilcanota. Also mentions mystical and cultural reasons for the trade.

Abstract: Lead poisoning is not a new threat for wild birds, but it is now playing an important role in shaping raptor populations. Studies have been focused mainly on Europe, North-America, and Japan, but little is known about the situation in South-America. Lead is a serious threat for wildlife, especially for long-lived species. Nevertheless, no information is available for wild Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) populations. This species, which lives throughout the Andes Mountains, is endangered mainly in the north though it is having problems throughout its distribution. We evaluated lead exposure in the Andean condor by a non-destructive method using feathers. We determined lead concentration from 152 feathers, collected in 15 communal roosts distributed throughout almost all condor’s range in Patagonia (ca. 1500km north–south). We also looked for the origin of this lead through the analysis of lead isotope composition of feathers and ammunition. We present here the first reference data on lead concentration for a raptor population from Argentina. Lead concentrations were generally low, however, some individuals had concentrations several times above the overall mean (up to 21μg/g). Our results suggest that lead might come from a mix of two types of ammunition sources, one used for big game and another for hare hunting. Andean condors are at the top of the food chain, thus all the other medium-to-large sized scavengers and predators from this area can be also exposed to this threat. We highlight the need to change hunting policies in Argentina, and in other South-American countries, including the banning of lead ammunitions to protect carnivores consuming hunted animals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Understanding the factors underlying species coexistence is a major focus in community ecology. When dealing with competition between native and exotic species, the competitive exclusion of the ‘weaker’ species can have consequences for biodiversity conservation. We examined interspecific interactions during foraging between black vultures Coragyps atratus and Andean condors Vultur gryphus in Southern Argentina. Previous studies suggest facilitatory interactions between them. However, in most parts of their distribution ranges, these species did not coexist until recently, when black vultures expanded their geographic range following human development. Thus, facilitatory processes or segregation patterns could not be fine-tuned enough to allow their coexistence. Our hypothesis is that black vultures and Andean condors compete for food resources, and that this competitive scenario can change depending on local species abundances and habitat humanization. We experimentally placed sheep carcasses in two habitats differing in degrees of humanization to study the foraging patterns in these species. Both species exploited carcasses with similar temporal patterns. However, the first to arrive and the dominant species were different in both habitats, according to their abundances. Although black vultures do not completely prevent the arrival of Andean condors to carcasses, they represent serious obstacles for feeding. Thus, while dominance hierarchy at carcasses could be related to body size, carcass consumption was determined by species abundance. Our results support the hypothesis that the expansion of a ‘winning’ species may trigger interspecific competition with other ‘loser’ species, with negative responses towards human activities when they became abundant. Although the results are not conclusive, invasion and extinction processes could be occurring and they can have serious consequences for the diversity (i.e. richness and evenness) of the New World scavenger guilds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that examines the suitability of using polymorphic histocompatibility complex (MHC) profiles for identification of individuals of Andean condor in Argentina. The study performs single-strand conformational polymorphism and direct sequencing of MHC classes I and II genes combined with age class inference from feather and molecular sexing. Result shows 80 different individuals from the molted feathers, while age ratios were similar to findings from direct observations.

The article presents study which examines the estimating indices of the abundance and the population sizes of Andean Condors. The study uses the bird feathers collected from 14 communal roosts in Argentina, the blood clots found in the feathers for DNA samples, and the separation of DNA sequences through electrophoresis. The study shows that 80 different individuals were determined from the 110 molted feathers, and the number of females is lesser than the number of males.

Estimations of the population sizes of threatened species are fundamental for conservation. The current estimate of the population of the Andean condor Vultur gryphus is based on limited local counts. Simultaneous censuses of 10 condor communal roosts were therefore conducted during 2006-2008 in north-west Patagonia, Argentina, to obtain a minimum population number, to estimate the size of the local population, and to describe use of the roosts by season and age classes. I fitted the data to two asymptotic models to calculate the population of condors as a function of the number of communal roosts surveyed. In an area of c. 6,300 km² I obtained a minimum population size of 246 individuals by direct observation, and a population estimate of 296 condors (range 260-332) by applying the models. This population, the largest known of this species, comprises 68.5% adults and 31.5% immatures. Condors had large aggregations in some communal roosts and used the area seasonally, increasing in numbers from autumn to spring and decreasing in summer. Longterm monitoring of communal roosts across the Andean condor's range is essential for the monitoring of this rare and vulnerable species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]