For Immediate UseContact: Garrison Frost
June 24, 2008(323) 951-9620

Los Angeles – Experts agree that removing lead from the environment is one of the most important steps to help the recovery of the California Condor, so the July 1 implementation of a new law restricting the use of lead ammunition in Condor country will be a tremendous boost to the prospects for this endangered species.

Condors frequently feed on animal carcasses left behind by hunters, and ingest dangerously high levels of lead from ammunition. It is estimated that in the last 10 years, roughly 30 rare Condors have died from lead poisoning in this manner.

“California Condors face a number of challenges, but lead is really the biggest threat to their future,” said Graham Chisholm, director of conservation for Audubon California. “By using non-lead ammunition hunters can help conserve this great bird.”

Last October, Gov. Schwarzenegger signed AB 821, authored by Assemblyman Pedro Nava, which created the ban on lead ammunition. The California Fish and Game Commission subsequently created a number of regulations necessary to enforce the ban beginning July 1.

Audubon California, which has advocated on behalf of the endangered species since the 1930s, championed the new law throughout 2007, both among hunters and actively at the legislative and policy levels.

Although some have portrayed the upcoming ban as anti-hunter, Chisholm noted that Condor experts believe that carcasses left behind in the wild by hunters are actually a prime source of nourishment for the recovering Condor population.

“Hunters have always been a part of the plan for bringing back the Condors and we want to make sure that continues,” said Chisholm. “The great thing about this ban is that Californians don’t have to choose between wildlife protection and recreational uses, such as hunting.”

About Audubon California

Audubon California is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. With more than 50,000 members in California and an affiliated 48 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of Audubon. This relationship links Audubon California to a national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engaging millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in conservation.

More information is available at www.ca.audubon.org.