Critically endangered condor poached in Colorado, officials looking for information

DENVER (KDVR) — A California condor was found 24 hours after it was shot and killed in late March in a remote area northeast of Lewis, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The area is west of the McPhee Reservoir in Montezuma County, and after investigating previous leads, CPW and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are asking the public to share any information they have regarding this incident and those who are responsible.

According to a CPW release, there are more than 560 California condors in the world, with more than half flying in Arizona, Utah, California and Mexico. The historical population of the species fell to 22 individuals in the wild in 1987, and groups like the California Condor Recovery Program and the USFWS have worked to increase populations through captive breeding and release of the protected birds.

According to the USFWS, California condors have wingspans that can reach over 9 feet and they weigh up to 25 pounds, making them the largest land bird in North America. Historically, they flew from California to Florida, and Western Canada to Northern Mexico, before populations diminished.

Condors, unlike birds of prey, do not have talons capable of killing or grasping objects. The large birds are often labeled vultures and are scavengers.

California condors are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, making it illegal for anyone to harass, hunt, wound or collect the large birds. Individuals who have killed a California condor could face a third-degree felony charge of wanton destruction of protected wildlife, which carries a maximum fine of $5,000, restitution of $1,500 and a five-year prison sentence.

Anyone with information is asked to assist with the investigation by submitting tips to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Operation Game Thief hotline, 1-877-265-6648, or via email to game.thief@state.co.us , or through the website here . Additionally, tipsters can contact the USFWS tip line, 844-397-8477, or submit a tip online.

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