Fewer than 150? Analysis of results and invitation to the III national census of Andean condor in Ecuador

Abstract

In Ecuador, two national censuses of Andean condors (Vultur gryphus) have been conducted, the first in 2015 and the second in 2018. These efforts to estimate the number of individuals and the population structure of V. gryphus have been crucial for understanding its main threats and potential conservation strategies to protect this species. The methodology used requires volunteer teams to identify and quantify individuals over three consecutive days from previously established observation points based on research and satellite tracking data. The first national census was a historic milestone that helped create a pioneering population estimation methodology in the region. The 2018 census helped establish the population structure by sex and age and estimate the population size. This second census had better results due to the increased temporal and spatial sampling effort. In 2024, we are preparing for the III National Census, which aims to evaluate the status and population structure of V. gryphus, allowing us to reassess the methodology and compare it with previous censuses. This research will also help us understand how much the populations of V. gryphus have been affected in recent years due to events such as hunting, poisoning, habitat reduction, among others. The implementation of this new census seeks to fulfill one of the objectives of the Action Plan for the Conservation of the Andean Condor in Ecuador and aims for the active participation of trained volunteers who align with the objectives of this national conservation effort for the condor.