Source: KCRA 3
The Los Angeles Zoo has achieved a record-breaking breeding season for California condors in 2024, with 17 chicks hatching, surpassing the previous record of 15 chicks set in 1997. This accomplishment is crucial for the critically endangered species, with only about 561 California condors remaining globally as of December 2023, and approximately 344 living in the wild. Factors such as habitat loss, pesticide contamination, litter, and lead poisoning continue to threaten their population.
The zoo’s captive breeding program, active since 1967, has been instrumental in the species’ recovery, particularly since the global population dwindled to just 22 birds in 1983. All chicks bred at the zoo are potential candidates for release into the wild, contributing to the conservation efforts. While the condors are not on public exhibit, visitors can view them during the zoo’s Condor Spotting events led by the Learning & Enrichment staff.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.kcra.com/article/17-condor-chicks-hatch-los-angeles-zoo/61692814