California condors came within nine individuals of extinction before an intensive captive breeding and reintroduction program. Welfare challenges remain in both captive and wild populations.
Condor welfare in both captive and wild settings requires careful attention. Captive birds need space, social interaction, and enrichment to prevent stereotypic behaviors. Wild birds face ongoing lead poisoning risk, requiring monitoring and veterinary treatment when affected. Aversion conditioning reduces dangerous human-wildlife interactions. The intensive management required for this species creates unique welfare challenges that must be balanced against conservation goals.