June General Meeting

“California Condors – Back from the Brink”
presented by Maria Montag

California Condors – Back from the Brink chronicles the survival of the magnificent California condor. Learn how the California Condor Recovery Program brought this critically endangered species back from the brink of extinction. Travel back in time to explore the remarkable natural history of the critically endangered California condor—from its origins in the Pleistocene to its dramatic decline and eventual classification as “extinct in the wild.” Discover the Condor Recovery Program, one of conservation’s greatest success stories! Learn how the program has brought this iconic species back from the brink through innovative captive breeding, hands-on management of wild populations, and ongoing efforts to overcome the challenges they still face today.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how science, dedication, and collaboration are helping ensure a future for one of North America’s most awe-inspiring birds.

These birds, once nearly extinct, now represent conservation success achieved through science, commitment, and public support.

Biographical sketch:

Maria is the Board President of Friends of California Condors Wild and Free, a non-profit that works in partnership with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), who manage the two National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) northwest of Los Angeles that protect the historic nesting sites of the critically endangered California Condors; Bitter Creek NWR and Hopper Mountain NWR. She is also a USFWS Maintenance Volunteer performing defensible space activities on refuge.  While not a trained biologist, she is an avid student of these birds and welcomes the opportunity to share her love of these fascinating birds with you today.