Since the release of captive bred and wild condors back to their coastal and southern California habitats began in 1991 the wild population has swelled from only 22 to 410.

In anticipation of the return of the condor, the Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest, California Audubon's Kern River Preserve, and Friends of the Condor- Wild and Free are hosting a Condor-centric day of events,  Saturday, October 27, 8 am -- 3 pm.

Schedule of events:

8 am to noon: Fall Color Hike to Red-tail Hawk Point at Audubon’s Kern River Preserve to see migrating birds and fall colors along the South Fork Kern River.  Although we will not see condors in this area we will have a great overview of the South Fork Kern River Forest and the surrounding mountain ranges where condors range.  Biologists will lead the walk to talk about condors and other wildlife. 

Meet at Sprague Ranch House at 7901 Fay Ranch Road in Weldon. Contact Reed Tollefson – 760.378.2531.

Noon to 1 pm: Picnic at Sprague Ranch House on Kern River Preserve – bring something to eat and drink. We will discuss condor management and issues informally while we enjoy the shade on a fall day.

2 pm: Condor presentation at USFS office at Kernville. Friends of the Condor past president Vince Gerwe will give a powerpoint presentation on condor biology.  Management and conservation issues including how lead ammunition harms and kills condors, eagles and other wildlife and what we can do to help.

Meet at the Kernville Ranger Station, 105 Whitney Road (corner of Burlando and Whitney, 1 block north of Kernville road). Contact Steve Anderson – 760 376-3781 x. 680.

We look forward to seeing you!

(Condor photo by USFWS)