Tracy Aviary condor, Andy N. Condor, has passed away
Aug 19, 2023, 3:00 PM | Updated: 5:01 pm
Tracy Aviary condor, Andy N. Condor has passed away (Tracy Aviary)
(Tracy Aviary)
SALT LAKE CITY — Home to over 300 birds, Tracy Aviary announced that Andy N. Condor, a 64-year-old Andean Condor, has passed away.
The aviary stated that according to his keeper, Helen Dishaw, Andy died in his sleep early Thursday of natural causes.
Andy, who was hatched in the San Diego Zoo in 1959, came to the Tracy Aviary the following year. At the Aviary, he spent the rest of his life educating visitors about the importance of birds like him.
Starting in 2011, the Tracy Aviary condor and his keeper, Dinshaw, would take morning walks around the grounds of the aviary, often joined by other staff and visitors.
“Walking with a condor is an unforgettable experience,” said Dishaw, “I count myself truly the most fortunate person to have had the honor of walking alongside my friend Andy every day.
Additionally, Dinshaw stated, “It is a cherished memory that I’m glad we were able to share with so many. His legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew him,”
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Tracy Aviary’s condor “celebirdy”
The Tracy Aviary condor was known and loved by thousands around the world. As a result, he received a lot of fan mail throughout the years.
Andy was also the subject of many photos, including a photo project by National Geographic photographer, Joel Sartore.
Additionally, he has been immortalized in various forms such as oil paintings, sculptures, and clothing.
Café Ibis’ Condor Coffee is a special blend with a delicious taste, created as a tribute to Andy.
In 2013, Pat Bagley, an editorial cartoonist in Salt Lake City, also chose to dedicate his cartoon to Andy on his 54th “hatchday”.
Tracy Aviary is deeply aware of the immense love and admiration that people all over the world have for Andy.
The staff is currently working on thoughtful plans to celebrate his life, as well as, ensure that his memory is rightly honored in the weeks ahead.
“He will be forever missed.” Said Dinshaw
