Compiling and Analyzing Condor Tracking Data

Historically, the endangered California condor ranged from southern Canada to northern Mexico, but by the late 1970s, only about 30 birds remained in a small area in southern California. A captive breeding program was established, and condors that were reintroduced to the wild were tracked by radio and satellite. This information helps managers develop a broad understanding of condor populations, refine management strategies, and evaluate new sites for releases. The results indicate that condors have recolonized portions of their range and reestablished traditional movement and foraging patterns.  Recolonization of habitats in southern California provides a travel corridor for recolonization of additional portions of the species’ historical range. USGS and USFWS scientists are working with other California Condor Recovery Program scientists to provide land managers with archived data and a mapping program to help them monitor condor movement, behavior, and land use change