California Condor
Image: amanda kaufman (cc-by-nc)
NameCalifornia Condor
Common NameCalifornia Condor
Scientific NameGymnogyps californianus
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)285
Length (cm)125
Weight (g)10000
Plumage DetailsAdults have mostly black body plumage with distinctive large white triangular patches on the underside of the wings, visible in flight. The head and neck are featherless, with skin color ranging from yellowish in juveniles to bright orange-red in breeding adults.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, California Condors produce a variety of hisses, grunts, and snorts, particularly when interacting at a carcass or nest site.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountainous regions, canyons, cliffs, open grasslands, oak woodlands
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeHistorically widespread across North America, the California Condor's current range is restricted to reintroduction sites in central and southern California, northern Arizona, southern Utah, and Baja California, Mexico.
Identifying Featuresimmense size and wingspan, bald orange-red head (adults), white triangular patches on underwings, soaring flight with finger-like primary feathers, black body plumage
Description
The California Condor is North America's largest land bird, a majestic vulture known for its immense wingspan and soaring flight. It is primarily a scavenger, feeding on large mammal carcasses in mountainous and open habitats.
