Status of the California Condor and Efforts to Achieve its Recovery

Prepared by the AOU Committee on Conservation, California Condor Blue Ribbon
Panel, A Joint Initiative of The American Ornithologists’ Union and Audubon California

August 2008

A concerted effort from government and non-profit agencies begun in the early 1980s to bring the California Condor back from the brink of extinction has been more successful than many in the field ever thought it would be, according to a report released today from a blue ribbon panel of the American Ornithologists’ Union. However, unless the primary threat to the condor – lead in its food chain – is removed, the endangered bird will continue to rely upon substantial support from humans if it is to survive.

The independent panel’s report is based upon a 12-month review of the condor recovery program, which included site visits to breeding facilities and release sites, literature reviews, interviews with key personnel, and further input from experts in condor biology and conservation. The report was requested by Audubon California and support through funds from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Morgan Family Foundation and others.

While the report recognizes the accomplishments of the Condor Recovery Program, the panel makes several recommendations that it believes will position the program for even greater success.