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California Condor

Gymnogyps californianus ORDER: CICONIIFORMES FAMILY: CATHARTIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

California Condor Photo

© David Clendenen

The largest flying bird in North America, the California Condor is one of the most endangered birds in the world. Rarely flapping, except during takeoff and landing, it is a superb glider that covers enormous distances each day.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Hawklike
Hawklike

Adult Description

  • Very large soaring bird.
  • Long, broad wings.
  • White along front edge of wings.
  • Short, broad tail.
  • Bare orange head.

Immature Description

Immature similar to adult, but has dark head and grayish instead of white patches in wings.

Range Map Help

California Condor Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • Golden Eagle smaller, and has white in ends of wings, not in the linings.
  • Immature Bald Eagle can have similar markings, but is smaller and will have some white in the tail.
  • Turkey Vulture flies with wings held up in a V.