The economic value of the Andean Condor: The national symbol of South America

Abstract

The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) occupies a mythical place in South American history. It is considered the official symbol of several nations. The Andean condor is the largest bird of prey in the world, which offers vital ecosystem services for humans. Condors remove the carcasses of animals that die in the moor by feeding on carrion (decomposed meat). At the same time, they prevent the growth and expansion of populations of other organisms potentially harmful to humans. Despite its importance and symbolic relevance, it is a species that is in danger of extinction (in Ecuador, there are slightly more than 100 specimens). Therefore, this study aimed to determine its economic value through the Contingent Valuation method. The Willingness to Pay (WTP) was determined to be between US$ 18.65 - US$ 34.54 per year, with a median of US$ 24.83. Competent authorities jointly with pro-animal organizations can design and execute rescue and conservation strategies for the condor, taking as a frame of reference the results of this research. The present research contributes to the literature by estimating the economic value of an emblematic species, which has been little or not studied from the perspective of environmental and ecological economics.