Colombia Welcomes First Condor Born Through Artificial Incubation

A new Andean Condor has been born in Colombia, after 12 years of efforts, thanks to an artificial incubation process. This species, which is critically endangered, welcomed a chick on July 29th. During its first few months of life, the bird will be closely monitored with cameras to ensure its adaptation and well-being.

Threatened Andean Condor born through artificial incubation in Colombia

The Jaime Duque Foundation announced the birth of Rafiki, an Andean Condor, as a result of this artificial incubation process. The procedure was carried out after the male’s partner accidentally broke the first egg. To avoid another loss, the second egg was placed in an incubator, where it received constant and specialized monitoring. This species is classified as vulnerable worldwide, and the news of its birth was revealed on August 7th, during the celebration of International Andean Condor Day. This bird is considered a symbol of spirituality and power in many Andean cultures.

The Andean condor is a key species for the balance of the ecosystem and is emblematic of South America. In Colombia, it is found along the Andes mountain range, but today it faces a serious risk of extinction. Among the threats to its survival are habitat loss due to infrastructure expansion, illegal hunting, poisoning from feeding on contaminated carrion, lead intoxication, and food scarcity, among others.

Protection measures

Since this species was declared endangered, various measures have been implemented to preserve its existence, as it has become a national symbol and a cultural identity emblem. The image of the condor is present in various aspects of society, such as in coats of arms, official seals, and coins in countries like Colombia, Argentina, and Chile. For example, in Colombia, the condor is considered the national bird and is featured on the national coat of arms, representing the nation’s glory

One of the main challenges facing the Andean condor is habitat loss. As a result, efforts are currently focused on preserving the areas where the condor lives, preventing deforestation, and promoting reforestation. Another significant threat is poaching; in Colombia, legal restrictions have been implemented to prevent and penalize this practice, to protect the species from extinction.