The largest bird in North America is making a comeback after reaching an alarming population size of about 20 birds. The California condor was highly endangered during the late 20^th century but holds spiritual importance to indigenous tribes and nature-lovers. Last week, conservationists announced that the 1,000^th chick hatched and successfully survived, giving new hope that the birds’ population will continue to grow.

The condor population plummeted in the 20^th century because of hunting, habitat loss and lead poisoning from eating the carcasses of animals that had been shot with lead bullets. When the population was nearing just 20 birds, conservationists began breeding them in captivity.

According to Tim Hauch, manager of the Peregrine Fund’s condor program, more than 300 wild California condors exist today. There is a total of more than 500 when those in captivity are included.

The newest chick was born in Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah. Condors lay only one egg at a time, and female condors do not nest every year. Conservationists are incredibly hopeful every time one is born.

“We’re seeing more chicks born in the wild than we ever have before,” Hauck told NPR. “And that’s just a step toward success for the condor and achieving a sustainable population.”

Although the chick was born in May, it was not considered to be a survivor until July, given the typical mortality of young condors within the first two months. The chick will be able to leave the nest and begin flying around November.

California condors are unique birds that can live up to 60 years in the right conditions. That makes condors not only the largest bird in North America, with a wingspan of 10 feet, but also one of the longest living birds in the world. Those who study California condors also believe that the birds are capable of having distinct personalities, which separates them from many other avian species.

Via NPR