The California Condor has made a remarkable comeback from the edge of extinction: by the late 1980s there were just 22 remaining in the world. Because of a successful captive-breeding and reintroduction program, today there are approximately 500 birds, about half of which fly free in the American Southwest. Researchers continue to study their genomic diversity and potential hazards (e.g., lead poisoning) to their survival.
This magnificent bird has a wingspan of 9.5 feet and can fly at more than 55 miles per hour and reach altitudes of 15,000 feet. Mated pairs stay together over successive seasons and together they incubate just one egg at a time. You can learn more about the California Condor from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service which oversees the reintroduction program.