The National Aviary announced the arrival of one of its newest residents Thursday.
Bud, a male Andean condor, came to Pittsburgh from the Dallas Zoo and lived behind the scenes for several months, acclimating to his new space. The Aviary says he now shares a habitat in Condor Court with the Aviary’s resident adult female, Lianni.
Officials say Bud serves as an ideal new potential mate for Lianni, and a relationship between the two is developing.
“Andean Condors are one of the world’s largest flying birds but their numbers in the wild are declining. Species Survival Plans ensure that the entire Andean Condor population continues to thrive and that they are genetically diverse for their long-term future,” Kurt Hundgen, the senior director of animal care and conservation programs for the National Aviary said in a statement. “Lianni and Bud’s bonding process is still in the developmental phase but we have seen strong signs that they are currently acclimating well with one another. As the Andean Condor breeding season typically begins in early spring, we remain hopeful this pair will potentially raise a chick to boost their population within the next few years.”