Joel Sartoreさんのインスタグラム写真 - (Joel SartoreInstagram)「Andy N. Condor, who I photographed @tracyaviary recently passed away. This was no ordinary bird. His longtime caregiver, Helen, wrote this to me after I expressed my condolences: "I have worked with animals for a long time now, and losing them is part of it, yet I'm always devastated. This, however, is a whole new experience for me - I have never felt like this over any living creature's passing - non-human or human. I lost my partner and my life will never be the same. He was so incredibly special and the relationship I had with him is something I will cherish forever - what it takes for these creatures to overcome their natural fear of us and be willing to trust is incredible. He was the quintessential ambassador for vultures and the awareness he raised and the caring he inspired is humbling. There will never be another like him and I am so thrilled you got the chance to meet and photograph him." Like those who cared for him, we are grateful for his 64 years of life and his work has a bird ambassador. He was famous for being sweet and gentle-natured, and though fully flighted, even went on daily walks with Helen through the grounds of the Aviary, much to the delight of all who saw him. Throughout his life, Andy helped to educate thousands of visitors about the vital role vultures play in maintaining healthy ecosystems around the world. To say that Andy will be missed is an understatement. Fly high, my friend. #condor #andean #bird #vulture #animal #wildlife #photography #animalphotography #wildlifephotography #studioportrait #PhotoArk #InternationalVultureAwarenessDay @insidenatgeo」9月2日 22時52分