Trivia Question of the Week

Alright, time for the trivia question of the week! This week's question:

What is the largest bird in the United States?

Hint #1: The species neared extinction in the 1970s

Hint #2: The decline was likely caused by a combination of factors: habitat loss, poisoning, and lead ingestion

Hint #3: They have a wingspan of over 10 feet, can weigh up to 30 pounds, and can live up to 60 years in the wild

Hint #4: They are scavengers

Hint #5: They live in California

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If you guessed California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus), you're correct! California Condor once ranged over the entire western United States, but today they're one of the most endangered species in the world, and their habitat is limited to parts of California and Arizona. Just over 100 birds live in the wild, and most of these were captive-bred animals that are still very closely monitored and regularly fed. The photo above is an image of a California Condor in Grand Canyon National Park.

So, was that a trick question? ;)

The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is no lightweight either-- it's the largest raptor (bird of prey) in the United States. With a wingspan between 6 and 8 feet in length and weights ranging between 7 and 14 pounds, Bald Eagles may not be as large or hefty as California Condors, but they are definitely big birds. Just check out the size of their tracks!