California Condor
Image: USGov-FWS (Public domain)
NameCalifornia Condor
Common NameCalifornia Condor
Scientific NameGymnogyps californianus
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)285
Length (cm)125
Weight (g)11000
Plumage DetailsAdults have mostly black plumage with prominent white triangular patches on the underside of the wings, visible in flight. The head and neck are largely bare of feathers, with skin coloration varying from yellowish to reddish-orange, often with pinkish hues, depending on age and emotional state.
Vocalization / CallCalifornia Condors are generally silent, lacking a syrinx. They communicate through a variety of hisses, grunts, and snorts, particularly when interacting at a carcass or during nesting.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, canyons, rocky shrubland, coniferous forest, oak woodland, open grassland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeHistorically, California Condors ranged across much of North America. Today, reintroduced populations are found in parts of California, Arizona, Utah, and Baja California, Mexico.
Identifying Featuresextremely large size, black body plumage, white triangular patches on underwings (adults), bald, yellowish to reddish-orange head and neck, massive hooked bill, soaring flight pattern
Description
The California Condor is a massive New World vulture, characterized by its dark plumage, impressive wingspan, and distinctive bald head. These birds are obligate scavengers, soaring high on thermals in search of carrion.
