The Andean condor is an iconic bird species in South America. During the past 20 years, 79 condors reared in zoos in Colombia and North America have been released into their natural habitat in Colombia and Venezuela. Now established, these condors are mature and have begun to raise their own offspring. Andean condors play a key role in a healthy, well-balanced environment because of their important role as nature's recyclers. These scavengers consume wild animal carcasses, thus reducing the spread of diseases such as anthrax and botulism. Preserving the natural range of this flagship species also provides habitat protection for an additional number of lesser-known endangered species. In 2010, chicks hatched at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and the Denver Zoo were sent to White Oak Conservation Center in Florida to be socialized and conditioned for release. In March 2011, they were successfully released to join their wild counterparts.
