California Condor

Overview

California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is a species of New World Vultures (Cathartidae) in the order Hawks, Eagles and Allies. A critically endangered vulture with a bare orange-red head and enormous wings; all remaining birds descend from a tiny captive-bred population, the most expensive conservation program in US history; glides over canyons.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Gymnogyps; binomial: Gymnogyps californianus; authority: (Shaw, 1797). Typical size: 110-125cm (wingspan 300cm). Average lifespan: 40-60 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Nearctic.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.