As the best state for bird watching, California is well known for its diverse bird species and the passionate fans who love them, like with the Big Bear eagles phenomenon. But these aren’t the only vital species supporting the local ecosystem.
Condors, whose range stretches across the continent all the way to the Andes Mountains dividing Argentina and Chile, are also part of California’s wildlife. However, their population in the state has significantly declined.
In an official press release from the L.A. Zoo, Denise M. Verret, CEO and Zoo Director, stated, “Our California condor care team continues to make strides in the recovery efforts of North America’s largest land bird. This year’s chicks will eventually help increase the genetic diversity of the wild population of condors. This iconic species represents a conservation win for Los Angeles and for California.”
This year’s breeding season at the L.A. Zoo resulted in the hatching of 10 healthy and thriving California condor chicks. The California Condor Recovery Program (CCRP) is managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies, indigenous tribes, and various NGOs.
Although California condors are not on public display at the Zoo, visitors can catch a glimpse of these critically endangered birds by attending the daily California Condor Talk. This presentation is hosted by the Learning & Engagement team from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the picnic area next to the Angela Collier World of Birds Show Theater.