MONTEZUMA COUNTY, COLORADO – The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) are urgently seeking the public’s assistance following the tragic shooting of a critically endangered California condor in late March 2024. The condor was discovered 24 hours after being killed in a remote area near Lewis, Colorado, west of McPhee Reservoir. Despite thorough investigations, authorities have yet to identify those responsible.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
The California condor, one of the most endangered species in North America, is protected under the Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to harass, harm, hunt, or kill these birds, and violators face severe penalties. Those found guilty of killing a California condor could face a third-degree felony charge, a fine of up to $5,000, restitution of $1,500, and a potential five-year prison sentence.
The incident underscores the fragile state of the California condor population, which once dwindled to just 22 wild individuals by 1987. Through the California Condor Recovery Program, led by the USFWS in partnership with various organizations, the population has slowly rebounded. As of June 2024, there are 85 condors in the wild across northern Arizona and southern Utah. However, their numbers were recently impacted by the highly pathogenic avian influenza in 2023, emphasizing the ongoing threats to their survival.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Public Urged to Assist in the Investigation
CPW and USFWS are appealing to anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and any information leading to a successful prosecution may result in a reward. The agencies have pledged to protect the confidentiality of those who assist in the investigation.
Contact Information:
Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Operation Game Thief (OGT) Hotline: 1-877-COLO-OGT (1-877-265-6648)
- Email: game.thief@state.co.us
- Website: Submit a Tip
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Tip Line: 844-397-8477
- Website: Submit a Tip
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats faced by the California condor, a species that has teetered on the brink of extinction. The continued survival of these majestic birds relies on public awareness and vigilant protection of their remaining populations.
RECENT MOUNTAIN NEWS
