Reintroduction of the California Condor to Baja California, Mexico
The condor crew observes the Baja California release site.
Only a few hundred years ago, the California condor ranged from British Columbia to Baja California, Mexico. As European pioneers settled within its range, the species declined dramatically to near extinction in the mid-1980s. Working with Mexican partners, the CRES Applied Animal Ecology Division has embarked on a long-term program to restore the California condor to the mountains of northern Baja California. Given their flight capabilities, it is anticipated that reintroduced condors will ultimately range from the Pacific Coast to the Gulf of California, as well as northward across the U.S. border, providing an important link to existing reintroduced populations in California.
Over the next decade, 4 to 8 condors will be released annually until the anticipated carrying capacity of 20 pairs is reached. This work involves behavioral research to produce the most successful and socially-adept release candidates, long-term monitoring using radiotelemetry and satellite GPS technology, and studies of environmental carrying capacity. This information is critical in learning how condors utilize and affect their habitat, comparing different release techniques, and identifying and monitoring threats to survival. This work also involves educational outreach in local communities, including development of ecotourism for long-term economic sustainability in the region.
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News Archives:
Mexico City Receives Two Condors from San Diego, Becomes Partner in Condor Recovery Program
Mexico's First California Condor Chick Gone
Wild California Condor Flies from Mexico to U.S., Condor Now in San Diego County
Free-flying Condors in Mexico Reach Historic Milestone; Pair Lays Project's First Egg
Other:
California Condor Sightings In San Diego County
Did you see a California condor in San Diego?
California Condor Recovery Program
Milestones in California Condor Conservation
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