1. California Condor

2. (Gymnogyps californianus)
Member of the vulture family
Largest wingspan of any bird in North America (2.9m)
Only surviving member of the genus Gymnogyps
Lives in scrubland and coniferous forests
Often travel 250 km a day in search of carrion
Can live up to 50 years old

3. Behavior Social birds, living in groups with dominant members
Use hissing and grunts to show dominance
Glide rather than fly
Perform urohidrosis – deficate on themselves cool off
Very clean – frequent bathing and cleaning of feathers

4. Area of Habitat

5. Status Critically Threatened Low birth rate
Reaches sexual maturity late (age 6)
Poaching
Lead Poisoning
Power lines

6. Protection Ridley-Tree Condor Preservation Act
Hunters are not allowed to use lead shot in condor range
1987- All 22 remaining birds were captured and bred in captivity
1991- Some birds were released
Currently 381 birds survive with 192 living in the wil
Most expensive species conservation project - $20 million total

7. Feeding Using a Puppet

8. Importance to Area Serve as scavengers, eating carrion
Important part of Native mythology
Are on California state quarter