Gymnogyps californianus
Critically Endangered
Known for its imposing stature and striking black and white plumage, the California Condor is a remarkable symbol of America's wild heritage. As the largest flying bird in North America, this majestic scavenger soars across expansive skies, its vast wingspan a breathtaking sight across the rugged terrain of California and Arizona. Despite its grandeur, this iconic bird faces a critical battle for survival, making it an emblem of both the beauty and the fragility of the natural world.
Males and females have similar plumage
Black
Dark Brown
White
White
Black
Dark Brown
Hooked
Ivory
Dark Grey
Grey
Grey
White underwing patches
Less pronounced than adults
Short, broad, slightly rounded
Darker with less distinct markings
117cm to 134cm
Length
274cm to 300cm
Wingspan
8.1kg to 11kg
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Hissing, grunting
Mostly silent, except during feeding or threat displays
Growling hiss
Active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and evening
Solitary or in pairs, occasionally forms larger groups around food sources
Defends nesting sites, but not feeding territories
Does not migrate, but travels widely within range
Dominant at carrion sites, often displacing smaller scavengers
Carrion
Scavenger, feeds on large carcasses
Mainly morning and late afternoon
Does not capture prey, locates carrion by sight
Feeds on a variety of carrion, depending on availability
None known
Caves or large crevices in cliffs
No nest constructed, egg laid on bare rock or soil
Winter to spring
One, but not all adults breed each year
White, unmarked
Approximately 11cm x 7cm
Single egg
Around 54 days
Approximately 6 months
Both parents incubate egg and feed chick
Southern California, Arizona, Utah, Baja California
Mountainous regions, canyons, scrublands
Sea level to 3000m
Does not migrate, but travels widely within range
Desert, Grassland, Forest
Temperate, Subtropical
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.