It was the second release of birds in Ventura County since 1992, when the program was temporarily suspended after five birds were electrocuted by power lines. Condors are by nature curious, and prone to perching on power poles. Some have also suffered lead poisoning after ingesting bullets left in animal carcasses by hunters. A program to scare them away from power poles is working, said Mike Wallace, wildlife scientist at the Center for Reproduction of Endangered Species in San Diego. Only two condors have been lost to power poles since 1992, he said.
Biologists also hope they have taught the condors to fear humans.
They never see the people who raised them in zoos, and when they do come into contact with humans it is during times when they need to be handled roughly, such as during blood tests and tagging. Recipients should seek permission to reprint the article from the source listed above. Reading on line, downloading or other use of this information signifies acceptance of these conditions, and the Full Disclaimer.