In 1996, six California Condors were released near Grand Canyon National Park. This was the first time since 1924 that they had soared above the canyon walls. Today over 70 birds fly freely over Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. If you are lucky you might see one of these amazing birds on a Grand Canyon rafting trip.
Here are some fun facts about California Condors:
*California Condors are the largest land bird in North America.
*California Condors have a wing span up to 9 1/2 feet.
*California Condors weigh up to 23 pounds.
*California Condors use thermal updrafts to soar and glide up to 50 miles per hour.
*California Condors travel 100 or more miles a day looking for food.
*California Condors mate for life.
*California Condors do not build nests.
*California Condors lay eggs 5 inches in length and 10 ounces on bare ground.
*California Condors typically lay a single egg every other year.
*It takes 56 days to incubate the egg.
*Both parents share in incubation and feeding.
*Young leave the nest at 5 to 6 months old.
*All California Condors in the Grand Canyon area have numbered tags.
*Grand Canyon National Park Service keeps an update on their site of all the California Condors in the Grand Canyon. http://www.nps.gov/grca/naturescience/california-condors.htm#CP_JUMP_389302
Watching such a magnificent bird soar above the canyon walls is a great addition to any river trip. Those who have seen the California Condor should consider themselves lucky. Join Colorado River & Trail Expeditions this summer and see if you are one of the lucky ones to see the California Condor soar.
