Adult female soaring in central Chile with broad wings, some of the largest of any bird. Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert!

From iconic species like the Andean condor to lesser-known gems such as ... inhabit the high-altitude regions of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, thriving in elevations exceeding 12,000 ...

The Andean condor is considered threatened but is in far better shape than its California cousin. Reintroduction programs are working to grow populations of these South American birds.

To date, over 115 sacred Inca ceremonial sites have been excavated at an elevation over 15,000 feet on some 30 Andean peaks. These high mountain sanctuaries dot the Andes from central Chile to ...