Details
Gymnogyps californianus
The California condor is a huge scavenging bird of western North America. By day it rides rising air and searches vast open landscapes.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses canyons, mountains, dry scrub, and open rangeland. Cliffs or large trees provide nesting and roosting sites, while open country aids feeding.
Wingspan is about 250-300 cm and weight about 8-14 kg. Black wings with broad white patches and a bare head suit a carrion-feeding life.
Diurnal birds soar alone or in loose groups. They flap little, using thermals to cover long distances with steady glides.
It is carnivorous, feeding mainly on carcasses of large animals. It does not hunt live prey, instead locating food by sight and experience.
Breeding is slow, with eggs laid in cliff cavities, caves, or large tree hollows. Parents care for the chick for an extended period.
Its status is listed as Critically Endangered. Lead poisoning and changes around food sources remain serious, so releases and close management are vital.
