2008 Condor Release

Saturday, November 1st, 2008

 

Sara Bartels

Due to the series of storms predicted to hit central California over the next several days, we will not attempt to release 2 juvenile condors on Saturday, November 1^st. While this is unfortunate and also a last minute inconvenience to many, this is the correct decision. We choose not to risk the health and safety of the of the newest juvenile Pinnacles condors by exposing them to inclement weather immediately upon release into an unfamiliar environment.

A lot of work goes into these release events, and because so many people have planned on attending we will still offer many of the same activities throughout the day. The event area will be relocated to the field adjacent to Pinnacles Visitor Center in the campground and be open from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.

There will be a ceremony at the visitor center at 10:30 am. All of regularly planned ranger programs, information booths and education tables will still occur, and biologists will be on hand to answer any questions. A ranger program in the campground amphitheater will start at 6:30pm on Saturday night. For a list of ranger programs for the entire weekend, please click here.

In lieu of the public release at the viewing area, special access to this normally closed section of the park will be allowed via ranger led walks. Walks on this one day will still allow you to view this seldom seen portion of the park and get a rare glimpse at the flight pen and the captive juvenile condors. In addition, it will offer the potential to see wild flying condors in the vicinity of the flight pen. Ranger programs are limited to ~20 people per hike, with hikes scheduled to depart from Pinnacles Visitor Center at 8:00am, 9:00am and 11:00am. We may offer more programs if there is significant interest and demand. Please register for a hike upon arrival at the event.
NOTE: Severe Weather May Cancel Hikes.

For questions regarding these changes, please call 831-389-4486 ext. 243 or e-mail us

Reminders:

Bring food, water, binoculars and gear such as raincoats, umbrellas, hats and layers of clothing sufficient for a full day at the park.

 

Information about previous Condor Releases

For more information about our partnership with Argentina and their condor program, please read this blog.