Los cóndores

Visit and video chat: Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá

2011-12-16T17:12:00.000-08:00

Notes from the field: Sara Reid

On Thursday, November 17^th students from the Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá in Argentina and the Hollister Dual Language Academy (HDLA) in California virtually crossed borders and learned more about each other during the first video chat between the sister schools. The video chat involved students and teachers in all grades from both schools, plus some family members of HDLA students. Staff members from the sister parks helped organize the event; Veronica Johnson and Kimberley Sawyer participated at HDLA, and Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito park ranger Mariano Passano and myself were present at Ceferino Namuncurá.

The children asked questions that ranged from what sports they play, to what they learn in school, to what animals live in their area. Questions and answers about food required some explanation, since students in Argentina have never seen a taco, and students at HDLA don’t know that locro is a traditional squash soup. A question about extracurricular activities resulted in a girl from Ceferino Namuncurá displaying the weaving she was working on, and a boy describing the crafts and tools they make with leather. The students realized they have many things in common, such as sports and the subjects they study in school. They also were fascinated by their differences, such as the fact that students at Ceferino Namuncurá all have horses, and most students at HDLA arrive to school by car. Students in both schools enjoyed the exchange and were thrilled to talk with children across the world in their sister school.

After an hour and twenty minutes the students signed off but I remained at the sister school to continue the exchange and learn more about the realities of the students. The school is located just outside the national park in a regional hydrologic preserve. The nearest town is three hours away on a dirt and rock road. The school is surrounded by protected pampa, or grassland ecosystems, with small and dispersed homesteads dotting the landscape. Many of the students live in these nearby ranches where their families have lived for generations, making their living by raising sheep and cattle. In fact it was local parents who built the school in 1967 so their children could receive an education and remain in the countryside. Today the Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá not only provides a high quality education to students in what appears to be the middle of nowhere, it also supports the traditional livelihoods of rural highland families.

The school is difficult to get to and most families do not own vehicles, so the students at Ceferino Namuncurá live for three weeks at the school and return to their homes for about a week. Both studying and living in the school, everybody works as a team, much like a family. Teachers and children eat their meal together, and chores such as cleaning up after the meal are shared. After class, students and teachers gather in the ‘living room’ to do homework, watch television, and work on arts and crafts. At bedtime the older students help the younger ones get ready for bed, and the teachers sleep in the same dormitory rooms as the students. On the weekends, after the students and teachers clean the school together, they go out for hikes, or visit their elderly neighbor who greets them with fresh baked bread. The students are all like brothers and sisters, and the teachers fill the roles of parents, nurses, friends and role models, twenty four hours a day.

The fact that the students, and teachers, live together makes for a school situation different than any I’ve ever experienced. At the end of my two days at the Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá, I felt like part of the family. The students were open, loving, and proud to share their school with me. Leaving the school I was sad to say goodbye, but inspired by all that we have to learn from each other. I look forward to continued sister school exchanges that will be unique opportunities to enrich the lives of all of the students, teachers, national park staff, and community members involved.

Sister School Project donates digital camera

2011-11-28T07:50:00.000-08:00

With support from the Pinnacles Partnership, the Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá in Argentina now has a digital camera for the school! This donation comes from funds for the Sister School project, a project born out of the Sister Park agreement between Pinnacles National Monument and Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. The camera will allow students at Ceferino Namuncurá to send photos and video to students in their sister school, the Hollister Dual Language Academy in California. For more information on the Sister School Project, see the previous posts.Students and teachers were thrilled to receive the camera and they all send their heartfelt thanks to those involved with the donation. They immediately began using the camera to take photos of the students which will be included in a video they are making for the Hollister Dual Language Academy. See some of the students photos and a short video message from a Ceferino Namuncurá student.

Guanaco Reintroduction Project

2011-11-23T10:02:00.000-08:00

Notes from the field: Sara Reid

26 guanacos (Lama guanicoe) arrived in the PNQC this week and are safely situated in a newly constructed corral where they await their release. The Guanaco Reintroduction Program is one of the main conservation projects at the PNQC and park staff, especially German Jaacks, and a team of volunteers from the Defensa Verde, have made a huge effort to reestablish this native herbivore in the Sierra Grande mountains of Córdoba.

The guanaco is a wild relative of the llama native to South America. It is about four feet tall at the shoulder and is a cinnamon brown color. Guanacos are social creatures and usually form groups of up to ten females and a dominant male. They live in a variety of habitats, from extremely dry deserts to highlands grasslands. They are highly valued for the quality of their fiber, but in PNQC they are more desirable for the ecosystem services they provide.

The goal of the guanaco reintroduction project at PNQC is to restore an important part of the grassland food chain. The guanaco is a native herbivore that disappeared from the Pampa de Achala due to hunting and displacement by cattle. When the national park was created the majority of the cattle were removed and without herbivores the ecosystem is missing an element of the food chain. In a grassland landscape, the guanaco plays an important role as a low impact, native herbivore by dispersing seeds, fertilizing soil, and maintaining patches of mosaic landscape.

The guanaco reintroduction at PNQC began in March of 2007 with 50 wild guanacos captured in Patagonia and brought to the PNQC. In December 2007 park managers brought 60 more guanacos to reinforce the population. Only about 25% of the 2007 guanacos became successfully established in the park. The stress of the journey, predation by puma, insufficient adjustment time and a failure to develop social groups all created challenges for the guanacos. Now, in 2011, 26 new guanacos have arrived, again with the goal of boosting guanaco numbers to achieve a stable population.

This time around the guanacos have a new, solid corral that will keep the pumas out. They will spend more time in the corral, between 30-45 days, and this should give them more time to form social alliances. Guanacos from the first group released in 2007 have already made their way to the corral to check out their new neighbors. In December a new group of guanacos will be introduced to the park and the guanaco reintroduction will continue until the population

reaches a self sustaining number. Biologists and park staff will monitor the guanacos and track their reestablishment in the Pampa de Achala.

Notes From the Field

2011-11-14T04:47:00.000-08:00

11/11/11

Notes From the Field: Sara Reid

The Sister Park project and the Pan American Partnership in Condor Restoration continues to grow as ongoing relationships are strengthened and new exchanges take place. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend the month of November visiting the Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito (PNQC) on behalf of Pinnacles National Monument as (PNM) an American Conservation Experience (ACE) Intern. I have received an enthusiastic welcome from our Sister Park and am pleased that the chances to share experiences and knowledge with our Argentine park partners are endless and mutually fruitful. Whether we are on the trail, in the office, sharing mate or making dinner, there is constant conversation and exchange of information related to our national parks and lived experiences in Argentina and the United States.

After hearing descriptions of the PNQC, it is thrilling to be in the park and see the landscape and resources with my own eyes. I realize all I can give is another description, but still I’d like to try and paint a mental picture of this impressive landscape. The PNQC encompasses 92, 328 acres, with an additional 290,190 acres of state hydrologic reserve bordering the park. From the park offices in the town of Villa Carlos Paz you climb from the valley bottom up to the Pampa de Achala at 6,500 feet. Pampa means flat grasslands, and this is what you find at the top of the Sierra Grande range where the PNQC is located. Native bunch grasses (Festuca sp. and Poa sp.) stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted by outcrops of sparkling granite and quartz. In this respect the landscape is similar to Pinnacles, with very few trees, lots of rocks, and low vegetation. Interspersed in the grasses, especially in the rocky areas, one finds native bushes (Berberis ruscifolia, Heterothalamus alienus, Baccharis sp., and Mintostachys sp.) barrel cactuses, and small clumps of wildflowers that are beginning to bloom. Many small streams and the mighty Condorito River cut the landscape and create riparian habitats where one finds the two species of tree in PNQC—the tabaquillo (Polylepis australis) and the maitén (Maytenus boaria). The Pampa de Achala is a unique meeting place where Polylepis, whose range extends north through the Andes, and the Maytenus, whose range stretches south to Patagonia, can be seen growing together.

This area of Argentina is similar to California in that it has a long dry season followed by a wet season. The dry, winter season lasts from April thru September, and the wet summer season is from October to April. Currently, in the middle of the Argentine spring, the hillsides are turning green and brief storms are blowing through the Pampa de Achala, bringing wind, rain and lightening. During my first week here I have been stationed almost exclusively up in the park. Living in the park is similar to living in Pinnacles—you only get cell service in a few places, you are an hour away from town, you live with an extended park family, and two steps out your front door you are confronted with sweeping landscapes and natural solitude. Being in the park I have seen a lot of wildlife. Wild guinea pigs are constantly whistling and scurrying across the pampa. The Achala green lizard (Prystidactilus achalensis) is easy to spot sunning itself on the rocks, and one must step carefully to avoid the yarará (Bothrops ammodytoides), a small poisonous snake. The Achala red fox (Pseudalopex culpaeus subsp. smithersi) made a quick appearance, and more than once I have seen puma, or mountain lion scat on the trail.

The black-chested buzzard eagle is a common sight, as is the brightly colored loyca (Sturnella loyca subsp. obscura), and there are at least 11 endemic bird species and subspecies found in the park. Of course, one of the most impressive sights in the PNQC is the Andean condor, flying free over the canyons and rocky outcrops of the park. I will write more about this soon!

Students: what have you learned about your national park?/Estudiantes: que han aprendido sobre su parque nacional?

2011-05-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

English version:

The school year is coming to a close for both the Hollister Dual Language Academy and the Ceferino Namuncurá School. The sister school project will continue into the next year, but before we go on break there are a few fun school activities coming up and opportunities for exchange between the sister schools.

On May 17th the 2nd grade class at Hollister Dual Language Academy took a field trip to Pinnacles National Monument. What did they learn about Pinnacles National Monument that they can share with their friends at the sister school?

In June the 3rd and 4th grade classes at Hollister Dual Language Academy will attend Camp Pinnacles. Camp Pinnacles is a 3 day long science camp where students will participate in hands on activities to learn about the geology, biology and botany of the Pinnacles area. What can the students share about the activities they did and the things they learned?

Students as the Ceferino Namuncurá School have had numerous visits from staff at the Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito this year. What did they learn about their National Park in these visits? What would they like to share with their friends in the Hollister Dual Language Academy?

I propose that each school create a blog post that tells and shows why their park is a special and protected place. The students can draw on the experiences they have had with their national park this school year. We are also looking for your ideas for future activities that can connect the students at the sister schools and teach students about conservation and resources in their area.

You can send your blog post and photos to sara_a_reid@partner.nps.gov, and it will be translated and posted to the Condor Preservation blog.

Versión en español:

El año escolar está por terminar para la Academia en Dos Idiomas de Hollister y también para la Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá. El proyecto de escuelas hermanas va a seguir en el año escolar que viene, pero antes de salir de vacaciones hay algunas actividades educativas que vienen y oportunidades de intercambio entre las escuelas.

En el 17 de Mayo el clase del segundo grado de la Academia en Dos Idiomas de Hollister visitó al Monumento Nacional de Pinnacles. ¿Que aprendieron sobre el Monumento Nacional de Pinnacles y que pueden compartir con los estudiantes en la Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá?

En Junio los clases del tercer y cuarto grado van a asistir el Camp Pinnacles. Camp Pinnacles es un programa vacacional de ciencias de 3 días donde los estudiantes participan en actividades con un enfoque práctico para aprender sobre la geología, biología y botánica alrededor del área de Pinnacles. ¿Que pueden compartir los estudiantes sobre las actividades que hicieron y las cosas que aprendieron?

Estudiantes de la escuela Ceferino Namuncurá han tenido varias visitas de los guardaparques del Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito en este año. ¿Que han aprendido sobre su parque nacional durante estas visitas? ¿Que querían compartir con sus amigos en la Academia de Dos Idiomas en Hollister?

Yo propongo que cada escuela crea una entrada del blog que cuenta y muestra ¿porque su parque nacional es un lugar protegida y especial? Los estudiantes pueden usar las experiencias que han tenido con los parques nacionales durante este año. También buscamos sus ideas para actividades futuros que conecten los estudiantes de las escuelas hermanas y les educen sobre conservación y recursos naturales en sus áreas.

Se puede mandar sus entradas del blog y fotos a sara_a_reid@partner.nps.gov, y serán traducidas y puestos en el blog del preservación del cóndor.

Sister School Project Accomplishments/Logros del Proyecto de Escuelas Hermanas

2011-04-11T14:55:00.000-07:00

English version:

The Pan American Partnership in Condor Restoration has created a new partnership in cross-cultural education and appreciation. The two sister parks, Pinnacles National Monument and Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito, are committed to being an educational resource for their local schools. As a result of the sister park agreement, each park is working with a neighboring school to provide environmental education opportunities with the goal of educating students about protected areas and sensitive resources both at home and across the world at the sister parks. The exchange between the sister schools, the Hollister Dual Language Academy, in California, USA, and the Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá, in Córdoba, Argentina, is just beginning, but already is providing important educational opportunities to students in both schools.

In 2010 Pinnacles National Monument hosted two visitors from Argentina: Carolina Gargiulo, condor biologist, and German Jaacks, natural resource manager from Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. Both Carolina and German visited the Hollister Dual Language Academy and gave presentations to the students about the California and Andean condors, and the natural resources, ecosystems, and geography of Argentina. These personal exchanges increase geographical, environmental and cultural awareness and bring unique lessons to the classroom. The visits were made possible by the generous support of the Pinnacles Partnership, the American Conservation Experience, Rotary International, and the Pan American Partnership in Condor Restoration.

German's visit also facilitated the first major exchange between the students at the sister schools. Before leaving for California, German visited the Ceferino Namuncurá School and collected messages from the students written on paper condor feathers. He delivered these messages to the students at Hollister Dual Language Academy and told them about the lives of the students in their sister school. The students in Hollister responded with scrapbooks, drawings, and messages that German delivered to the students in Argentina when he returned. German had these comments to share about the exchange:

"These children [at Ceferino Namuncura School] were fascinated [with the drawings and messages], really it fascinates them to think of you. They were listening and watching my presentation with an enormous enthusiasm. The principal of the Ceferino Namuncurá School told me that to have friends on the other side of the world is an incentive to the children to learn to use computers. It is good for the teachers at Ceferino Namuncurá that the children have this incentive, because it is necessary that they learn to use computers to pass their curriculum requirements".

There are many ways for the sister school project to advance and grow. The exchanges between the students will continue, both through conventional mail and the internet. Students at both schools are learning more about their national parks thanks to field trips and school visits from park rangers, with the goal of sharing these experiences with each other. Funding is being sought to support basic materials (art supplies, shipping costs) to support the sister schools in the next school year. Additional goals that need funding are the inclusion of the Hollister Dual Language Academy in the Camp Pinnacles program, a teacher exchange between the two schools, and the construction of a viewing area at the Ceferino Namuncurá School where children can invite tourists and observe the Andean condor in action.

Versión en Español:

La Asociación Panamericano de Restauración del Condor ha creado una nueva asociación en educación y valoración intercultural. El proyecto de hermanamiento entre áreas protegidas, en este caso los parques hermanos, el Monumento Nacional de Pinnacles y el Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito, tienen como objetivo ser un recurso educativo para las escuelas locales. Como resultado del acuerdo de parques hermanos, cada parque está trabajando con una escuela cercana al área protegida, con actividades de educación ambiental con el fin de enseñar a los estudiantes sobre las áreas protegidas y sus recursos locales y compararlos con el otro lado del mundo, en otra área protegida hermana. El intercambio entre las escuelas hermanas, la Academia en dos Idiomas de Hollister, en California, E.E.U.U., y la Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá, en Córdoba, Argentina, recién está empezando, pero ya está dando oportunidades educativas importantes a los estudiantes en ambas escuelas.

En 2010 el Monumento Nacional de Pinnacles recibió la visita de dos personas de Argentina: Carolina Gargiulo, bióloga especializada en cóndores, y German Jaacks, Vice-Intendente y Encargado de Recursos Naturales y Culturales del Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. Carolina y German visitaron a la Academia en Dos Idiomas de Hollister y les dieron presentaciones a los estudiantes sobre los cóndores andinos y californianos, y los recursos naturales, ecosistemas, y geografía de Argentina. Estos intercambios personales aumentan la conciencia cultural, ambiental y geográfica, y también brindan lecciones insuperables a la clase. Las visitas se hicieron posible con el apoyo generoso del Pinnacles Partnership, el American Conservation Experience, Rotary International y el Pan American Partnership in Condor Restoration.

La visita de German facilitó el primero intercambio entre las estudiantes mayores en ambas escuelas. Antes de venir a California, German visitó a la Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá y colectó mensajes escritos en alas de papel por los estudiantes. Él entregó los mensajes a los estudiantes de la Academia en Dos Idiomas de Hollister y les contó sobre la vidas de los estudiantes en su escuela hermana. Los estudiantes en Hollister respondieron con álbumes de recortes, dibujos, y mensajes que German les entregó a los estudiantes en Argentina a su regreso. German compartió los siguientes comentarios sobre el intercambio:

"Estos chicos [de la Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá] estaban fascinados [con los mensajes y dibujos], de verdad que les fascina pensar en ustedes. Han estado escuchando y mirando mi presentación con enorme entusiasmo. La Señora Directora de la escuela Ceferino N., me dice que esto de tener amigos al otro lado del mundo, incentiva a los niños para aprender a usar las computadoras (ellos, son niños de campo, de las montañas, y no acostumbran a usar las computadoras). Es bueno para las maestras de Ceferino Namuncurá que los niños tengan ese incentivo, porque es necesario que aprendan a usar computadoras para aprobar sus currículas escolares."

Hay varias maneras para avanzar el proyecto de escuelas hermanas. Los intercambios entre estudiantes van a seguir, a través del internet y correo convencional. Estudiantes de ambos escuelas están aprendiendo más sobre sus parques nacionales gracias a salidas al campo y visitas a la clase de guardaparques y técnicos que trabajan en las áreas protegidas, con el objetivo de compartir estas experiencias y conocimientos entre si mismos. Estamos buscando fondos para comprar materiales e insumos para los proyectos que cada escuela tiene con el parque, y asi financiar las actividades programadas a realizar en el año escolar entre los alumnos y personal del parque nacional. El proyecto también tiene objetivos adicionales que necesitan fondos, como la inclusión de la Academia en Dos Idiomas de Hollister en el programa de Camp Pinnacles, un intercambio de docentes de las escuelas hermanas, y la construcción de un mirador en la Escuela Ceferino Namuncurá donde los estudiantes pueden practicar guiadas a turistas y hacer avistajes del cóndor Andino.

Escuelas Hermanas en la revista de Administración de Parques Nacionales, Argentina

2011-02-10T17:08:00.000-08:00

Parques Hermanas, Escuelas Hermanas

2011-02-10T16:39:00.000-08:00

Sister Parks, Sister Schools

2011-02-10T16:01:00.000-08:00

2010-01-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

A los lectores…

Hola, mi nombre es Carolina Gargiulo, soy bióloga especializada en el manejo de la vida silvestre. Actualmente estoy trabajando en el Centro de Zoología Aplicada (Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina) donde estoy realizando mi doctorado, el cual consiste en estudiar a la población silvestre de cóndores andinos en tres Parques Nacionales del centro de Argentina. Vine a Pinnacles National Monument como voluntaria para trabajar durante 3 meses junto al Grupo de Trabajo para la Conservación del Cóndor Californiano en California (California Condor Crew). Esta posibilidad surgió gracias al interés de un grupo de biólogos de Pinnacles en crear un “Acuerdo de Hermanamiento” entre Pinnacles National Monument, California, USA y el Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito, Córdoba, Argentina, debido a que en ambas áreas existen proyectos relacionados con la conservación de los cóndores y porque además presentan muchas características y problemáticas en común. Mediante este Acuerdo se podrá intercambiar información y experiencias, lo que permitirá un mayor aprendizaje mutuo que se verá reflejado en futuras acciones de manejo y conservación de las especies y su ambiente. A continuación podrán leer lo relacionado a algunas de mis vivencias en Pinnacles. Que lo disfruten!

“Mi primer encuentro con el Cóndor Californiano”
Notas de campo: Carolina Gargiulo.
Fecha: 11 de noviembre, 2009

El 11 de noviembre de 2009 fue mi primer encuentro con los cóndores californianos. Ellos estaban posados en un gran pino gris cercano a la “plataforma” o facility” como dicen aca. Fue una gran emoción verlos ahí, tan cerca. En ese momento me sentí muy afortunada de poder vivir esta experiencia, de poder aprender como trabajan en Pinnacles para conservar a esta ave que es un pariente cercano del cóndor andino que se encuentra en Sudamérica.
El objetivo de este día era manipular a unos cuantos cóndores que estaban dentro de la plataforma bajo tratamiento debido a que contenían elevadas concentraciones de plomo en su sangre. Por lo tanto, debíamos extraer nuevas muestras de sangre para chequear su evolución. Debido a que la concentración de plomo en sangre en algunos de ellos continuaba siendo elevada, hubo que trasladarlos al Zoológico de Los Angeles donde recibirían otro tratamiento.
En otros casos, en cambio, solo hubo que realizar el cambio del transmisor y/o obtener muestras de plumas para realizar posteriores estudios en el laboratorio relacionados con el contenido de plomo. Todo lo que observé y experimenté ese día fue incredible. Noté que todos los integrantes del Condor Crew sienten mucha pasión por lo que hacen y todos desean profundamente que el cóndor californiano vuelva a volar libremente sin marcas alares, ni transmisores y que no requieran la ayuda de los humanos para sobrevivir. Resulta irónico porque mientras algunos humanos trabajan arduamente por su conservación, otros solo contribuyen en desperdigar balas de plomo contenidas en los animales que ellos mismos matan. Si bien esta actividad, por un lado, resulta beneficiosa porque esos animales muertos constituyen el alimento de los cóndores, por otro lado, los están condenando a un envenenamiento seguro al user balas de plomo. En todo este aprendizaje, me enteré que por suerte en el mercado de la balística existen otras alternatives menos nocivas para la vida silvestre. Por lo tanto, para salvar al cóndor y a otras especies que también están muriendo a causa del plomo solo necesitamos un cambio de actitud, y entender que debemos tener una conducta más saludable con nuestro entorno. Hasta entonces hay mucho trabajo por hacer.

“Conociendo a otros grupos que trabajan por la conservación del Cóndor Californiano en el Parque Nacional Grand Canyon, Arizona”
Notas de campo: Carolina Gargiulo.
Fecha: 16-20 de noviembre, 2009

Al poco tiempo de haber llegado a Pinnacles tuve la oportunidad de conocer el Parque Nacional Grand Canyon. Realmente no hay palabras suficientes para describir la belleza de este lugar inmenso con cañadones profundos donde el silencio tiene su propio sonido. Impresionante, simplemente hermoso...
El objetivo de este viaje era participar de una reunión sobre el cóndor californiano en la cual se brindaría información actualizada en relación a los diferentes esfuerzos de conservación sobre el cóndor californiano a las personas que trabajan en programas de educación ambiental. En esta ocasión pude contar mis actividades relacionadas al estudio del cóndor andino en Argentina. Participar de esta reunión fue muy interesante porque pude conocer gente muy comprometida con su trabajo y aprendí sobre las distintas amenazas a las que se encuentra expuesto el cóndor, y sobre todo lo que se está haciendo en pos de su conservación. Luego de finalizado el encuentro, Chris Parrysh, responsable del Condor Crew perteneciente al Paregrine Fund, se ofreció a mostrarnos su trabajo en Vermilion Cliff, Arizona. Por lo tanto, Jim Peterson, biólogo de Pinnacles, biólogos que trabajan con el cóndor californiano en el Parque Nacional San Pedro Mártir en México y yo aceptamos su invitación. Una vez allí, observamos la manipulación de cóndores en la plataforma. Afortunadamente, uno de los cóndores pudo ser liberado debido a que el nivel de plomo en su sangre había disminuido gracias al tratamiento administrado. Sin embargo, otros cóndores permanecieron en la plataforma porque requieren seguir siendo tratados porque el plomo aun les representa una amenaza. Luego de una cálida cena y mucha música, al día siguiente, Jim y yo emprendimos nuestro retorno hacia Pinnacles.

“Actividades de campo en Pinnacles”
Notas de campo: Carolina Gargiulo.
Fecha: noviembre y diciembre, 2009

Pinnacles National Monument protege el área circundante de lo que queda de un antiguo volcán que fue fragmentado por la falla de San Andrés. De la otra mitad del volcán que estaría ubicado cerca de Los Angeles ya no queda nada, porque fue desgastado por el viento y la lluvia durante millones de años. Afortunadamente, Pinnacles constituye un hermoso escenario donde es posible observar cóndores californianos volando libremente o alimentándose de carroña en lugares específicos. Desde elevados sitios de observación, o mediante recorridos en camioneta por los caminos que limitan al parque se puede obtener señales de los cóndores gracias a los transmisores que fueron colocados en sus alas. Obtener este tipo de información es muy importante para los biólogos de Pinnacles porque les permite saber si los cóndores se encuentran dentro del parque o fuera de él. Si bien desde que llegué a Pinnacles he vivido experiencias hermosas y he aprendido muchas cosas interesantes en relación al cóndor californiano, en esta oportunidad quiero resaltar dos momentos que me resultaron muy emocionantes. Uno de ellos fue observar los primeros vuelos del cóndor 463 que fue liberado desde la plataforma de Pinnacles el 24 de noviembre de 2009. Este cóndor es un juvenil que nació y fue criado en cautiverio, y que actualmente se encuentra volando libremente junto a otros miembros de su especie. El otro evento importante fue el 2 de diciembre de 2009, cuando pude ver al pichón (cóndor 514) volando junto a otros seis cóndores. Este pichón nació en un nido silvestre, su madre murió debido al envenenamiento con plomo, su padre aun lo alimenta y hoy está volando en libertad y se está integrando cada día más a la población silvestre. Como podrán imaginarse estas imágenes me resultarán muy difíciles de olvidar.

“XI Reunión del Grupo de Trabajo sobre el Cóndor Californiano en el Zoológico de San Diego, California”
Notas: Carolina Gargiulo.
Fecha: 10 y 11 de diciembre, 2009

Durante esta reunión, cada uno de los grupos que trabajan para la conservación del cóndor californiano resumieron los aspectos más importantes acontecidos durante el año.
Los temas que se abordaron durante la misma se relacionaron con las causas de mortalidad de los cóndores, se presentaron estudios que permiten conocer la historia de exposición al plomo de los cóndores por medio de la utilización de sus plumas, se sintetizaron los eventos más importantes ocurridos durante el año en relación a la cría en cautiverio y en estado silvestre, se presentaron las problemáticas relacionadas con la micro-basura (basura pequeña) que provoca principalmente la muerte de los pichones en los nidos, los choques de la aves contra los molinos de viento que se utilizan para obtener energía, el adelgazamiento de las cáscaras de los huevos debida a la ingestión de DDE lo que provocaría la muerte del embrión durante el desarrollo, las actividades de los policías ambientales relacionadas con el control de la caza de la fauna silvestre y el uso de las municiones de plomo. Para coronar esta reunión nos organizamos en diferentes grupos para conocer las instalaciones que el Zoológico de San Diego posee para llevar a cabo la cría en cautiverio de cóndores andinos y californianos. Al día siguiente, satisfechos con la información obtenida, Daniel, Jake, Scott, Laura y yo emprendimos nuestro regreso a Pinnacles.

“El Club Rotary de San Juan Bautista, California conoce al Cóndor de Sudamérica”
Notas: Carolina Gargiulo.
Fecha: 17 de diciembre, 2009

El 17 de diciembre de 2009 muy temprano en la mañana, Denise, Eric y yo nos dirigimos a la ciudad de San Juan Bautista, California para contarles a los integrantes del Pinnacles Partnership y del Club Rotary de la ciudad San Juan Bautista todo lo acontecido en relación al “Acuerdo de Hermanamiento” entre Pinnacles National Monument, California, USA y el Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito, Córdoba, Argentina. En esta oportunidad, también, pude contar mis actividades relacionadas al estudio de las poblaciones silvestres de cóndor andino en el centro de Argentina.
Durante este encuentro tampoco faltó opotunidad para mostrarles las hermosas bolsas de tela fabricadas a partir de botellas plásticas, en cuyo diseño se incluyen a los cóndores andino y californiano como símbolo del hermanamiento entre ambos parques que pertenecen a países y culturas diferentes, bajo el concepto de conservar a los cóndores y cuidar el ambiente evitando el uso de bolsas plásticas. La interacción con toda esta gente fue muy agradable, ellos se mostraron muy interesados y muy contentos por toda la información que les brindamos. Al finalizar la reunión uno de los miembros del Club Rotary nos invitó a concurrir al famoso teatro mexicano para disfrutar de la obra “La Pastorela” que se realiza todos los años en la Misión de la ciudad de San Juan Bautista. Aceptamos su invitación gustosamente y hacia alla fuimos dos días después.

“Visita al Refugio de Vida Silvestre Bitter Creek, California”
Notas: Carolina Gargiulo.
Fecha: 22 de diciembre, 2009

Este día junto con Erica, otra voluntaria de Pinnacles Condor Crew, fuimos al Refugio de Vida Silvestre Bitter Creek donde trabajan los biólogos de US Fish & Wildlife Service para colaborar durante el manejo de los cóndores que se encontraban dentro de la plataforma. El manejo implicó tomar muestras de sangre para medir la concentración de plomo y/o el recambio de transmisores alares.
Afortunadamente, la mayoría de los cóndores que manejamos ese día pudieron ser liberados porque el nivel de plomo en su sangre había disminuido gracias al tratamiento administrado.
Joseph, el coordinador del Condor Crew en Bitter Creek, me contó la historia del cóndor número 28. Esta hembra juvenil nació en un nido silvestre y su padre es el cóndor AC9. Lo profundamente emocionante de esta historia es saber que AC9 es el último cóndor californiano silvestre que fue puesto en cautiverio en 1989 para iniciar el programa de cría en cautiverio de los cóndores californianos para tratar de evitar la extinción de esta especie. Gracias al intenso trabajo de todas las personas involucradas en la conservación de los cóndores, hoy, AC9 vuelve a volar en libertad, y no solo eso, sino que además tiene una hija que lleva su sangre silvestre. Luego de contarme esta historia, Joseph, volvió a liberar al cóndor 28 porque, por suerte, su nivel de plomo en sangre era bajo. Ella, por supuesto, se alejó rápidamente de nosotros y voló. En ese momento pensé: “que hermoso es ver la forma en que la vida se abre camino”… Sin embargo, en este momento, los cóndores californianos dependen de nosotros, lo humanos, para sobrevivir y lo increíblemente contradictorio es que somos también nosotros los que continuamente estamos amenazando su supervivencia. Para pensar, no?

Continuar la Colaboración con Conservación de Cóndores

2009-03-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

Spanish Version
NOTAS DESDE EL CAMPO - Jim Petterson; MARZO 2009

INSTALACION DE UN SISTEMA AUTOMATICO DE CAMERAS
Un dedicado grupo de biólogos y colaboradores, se encuentra trabajando con contínuo esfuerzo para la recuperación y conservación del Cóndor Andino. La Fundación BIOANDINA, es quien administra este significativo Programa, que se lleva a cabo en las sierras de PAILEMAN, en la Patagonia al sur de Argentina. El responsable del mismo es el Jefe de Campo, Walter Kaufman, quien en febrero de este año , recibe por segunda vez la visita de Jim Petterson, del Programa de Recuperación de Condores en California;EEUU, comprometidos colaboradores de este proyecto. El propósito de este encuentro fue la donación e instalación de un Sistema Automático de Cámaras destinadas a monitorear el peso de los cóndores que vuelan libremente en los alrededores de PAILEMAN,explicar su manejo y beneficios. Este Sistema permitirá supervisar los cambios de peso en las aves y el seguimiento de sus condiciones físicas, ya que un cóndor con bajo peso podría encontrarse enfermo y cuanto antes los biológos tengan la información, será la captura para su evaluación.

Este Sistema cuenta con una gran balanza y una cámara, la cuál se sitúa apuntando y focalizando la escala en la balanza, cualquier ave que aterriza en la misma provocará automáticamente el disparo de la foto y luego al ser vista en la computadora, se podrá obtener con presición el peso del ave. Jim, Walter y colaboradores de BIOANDINA, trabajaron en el sitio de las liberaciones para encontrar el lugar adecuado para instalar el equipo, decidiendo finalmente colocar una balanza arriba del corral donde estan los condores jovenes que serán liberados y la otra afuera del corral donde conviven los cóndores para su reproducción.Finalizada la tarea, el grupo se sintió entusiasmado ante las posibilidad que este compromiso solidario entre ambos países brinde mejoras para la protección y entendimiento de estas magnificas aves!

Fotos de cóndores de California en los EE.UU. que se han adoptado con el mismo enfoque automático de la cámara se puede ver aquí:

http://www.nps.gov/pinn/naturescience/condorcam1.htm?eid=126235&root_aId=140#e_126235

English Version
NOTES FROM THE FIELD - Jim Petterson; MARCH 2009
INSTALLATION OF AUTOMATIC CAMERA SYSTEM

Partners are working with the California Condor Recovery Program (Pinnacles National Monument, Pinnacles Partnership, and the Ventana Wildlife Society) were able to contribute funds to donate an automatic camera system to the Bioandina Andean Condor Program near Paileman, Patagonia. The focus of this trip was to deliver the equipment and assist with the installation of the camera system. This technique will be used to monitor the weights of Andean condors flying free in the vicinity of the Paileman release site. Identical systems have been used in the U.S. to help monitor the physical condition of condors by tracking their weight over time. The camera is set up to focus on the scale and any bird landing on it causes the camera to automatically take a picture. By looking at the scale photos on a computer, the scale dial can be read and the bird's weight recorded. A bird that experiences a large loss of weight may be sick and the sooner biologists know this, the earlier that bird can be captured for evaluation to try to find out why the bird has lost weight.

Jim, Walter Kaufmann, and other volunteers from Bioandina spent time at the release site evaluating potential sites for placing the scales and camera. We ultimately decided to put one scale in the upper flight pen where young birds awaiting release are kept, and the other scale with the camera outside the flight pen where the breeding pair of condors are kept. The photos shown above were taken at the second site.

Photos of California condors in the U.S. that have been taken using the same automatic camera approach can be seen here:
http://www.nps.gov/pinn/naturescience/condorcam1.htm?eid=126235&root_aId=140#e_126235

We are excited at the prospects for using this approach to better protect and understand these magnificent birds!!

Notes from the Field

2009-02-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

Notes from the Field: Scott Scherbinski
October 19, 2008, Meeting with Ranchers

We have spent the last week traveling to a few small villages around Paileman, talking with local ranchers about the condor project and some of the issue facing wildlife. As we approach each ranch house we are always greeted by the families with a smile, a handshake and “Pase. Pase.”, inviting us into their homes, then, “Tome mate?”, to invite us to share in mate. On our first stop we talk with Senor Curiqueo, who showed us petroglyphs on the cliffs above his house and invited us to return for dinner and a place to sleep. We continued on and met with other families with equal generosity. The majority of people we talked with had never met any of us before although many knew of the condor project. All were interested in the condors and wished the project well. They were concerned about the potentially poisoning of condors and were very interested in alternative methods to reduce the risks of condors feeding on laced carcasses.

As we pulled up to another ranch several girls played out front. They greeted us with the customary kiss on the cheek and directed us behind the house where family and neighbors were separating a cow from the herd for slaughter. With the cow lassoed, it was dragging one of the men toward a hillside as two other men chased behind trying to get another lasso on the cow. Walter, Marcelo and myself immediately jumped in to help stop the animal before the rancher was drug through the brush. After a few minutes, we were all breathing heavy and exchanged smiles as the cow was finally on the ground and ready for slaughter. We were invited to stay for a meal and spent the afternoon discussing the project and their concerns as ranchers.

Our next stop was at the home of Pepo. We met him earlier on the road where he told us the story of seeing condors in the mountains when he was younger and of recently having one of the released condors fly low enough over him to hear the wind in its feathers. Again we were generously invited into his home for mate and given fresh meat for our dinner.

Notes from the Field

2009-02-02T08:58:00.000-08:00

Note from the Field: Scott Scherbinski
October 12, 2008, Peninsula Valdes

For the past several days Ana and I have taken a break from the fieldwork in Sierra Paileman and traveled to the coast. We visited Peninsula Valdes, a provincial reserve that encompasses a wide variety of marine mammals, as well as terrestrial mammals and birds. There are breeding colonies of Southern Elephant Seals, Southern Sea Lions, Magellanic Penguins, Southern Right Whales and Orcas. We stopped by an area favored by Southern Right Whales and saw an amazing number of whales as they approach close to shore. There were so many whales in this area that they were everywhere we looked and they were so close we could hear them vocalize. We also saw several whale carcasses that had washed up on the beach. A scene that reminded me of Big Sur, California where California Condors regularly feed on sea lion and whale carcasses. This seems like an ideal place and only a matter of time before Andean Condors fly here and discover this food source.

We also traveled to Punto Tombo where there is a huge breeding colony of Magellanic Penguins. It was an incredible sight to walk through this semi-arid scrubland and see tens of thousands of penguins walking around and crawling in and out of burrows where they nest.

Traveling up and down the coast, as well through Cordoba and Buenos Aires, I can’t but help to notice how the image of the condor is everywhere. It is used on clothing, there is El Condor bus line, it is used as a street name and as a store name, and by airlines as name for a frequent fliers club. There seems to be a deep appreciation for the condors as a symbol of the country and the beauty of wilderness. It has been a great few days but Ana and I are both anxious to get back to Paileman and to hear how the condors are doing.

Notes from the Field

2009-02-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

Notes from the Field: Scott Scherbinski
October 7, 2008, Condor 26 Re-released

Condor 26 was re-released two days ago after being back in the flight pen for a couple of weeks. Time in the flight pen gave her the opportunity to feed and drink and gave the field crew the opportunity to closely monitor her for potential injury or illness. Fortunately she was looking health and strong and Walter released her as Marcelo, Ana and I watched from below, ready to follow her if she chose to fly far from the release area. 26 did fly from area, fortunately not far out over the flat grazing lands as she did initially. But, unfortunately she flew into the territory of a pair of Aguila Moras, or Black Chested Buzzard Eagles. As she flew the eagles repeatedly stooped on her, slamming in to her with open talons and forcing her to land. Once perched on a rock outcropping the eagles continued to stoop and strike her. At one point it appeared as 26 might be knocked off her perch. She was able to tuck in behind a boulder where the eagles could not get to her. As a biologist it is a paradox. On one hand, it is amazing to witness the natural struggle for life and power of these eagles. On the other hand, it is difficult to watch as an animal in which so much time and effort has been placed is in a legitimate struggle for its life. Walter, Marcelo and I watched from below, grimacing and flinching with each pass of the eagles. At this point even if we wanted to intervene there was nothing we could do. Finally, after several passes the eagles relent enough for 26 to escape and fly out of their territory. Incredible.

In addition to keeping an eye on the young condors as they begin to take longer and longer flights, we have also been observing two adult condors in the Voladora. This is a flight pen that has been built into the rock face of a cliff. The hope is that the condors inside will breed and their young will be released with other captive bred condors. This is an impressive pen. Build around a natural cave in the rock to be used as a nest cavity with an open view of the surrounding cliffs. Just looking at the structure you know a great deal of work went into moving materials into place, bolting down the supports and constructing the steel mesh of the walls. When I ask the crew they smile and sigh, as just the thought of the work they put in to this pen is tiring. Walter, Mauricio, and Marcelo built this pen in only three weeks. It is impressive to hear how much they accomplish. In what is becoming routine, I am again impressed with their dedication, hard work and resourcefulness.

In the evening, when we aren’t hiking slabs of carcasses to the tops of the ridgeline for the new released condors to feed on, we take turns cooking dinner. We often stop be the home of the Botana family, who graciously share meals of asado lamb and empanadas. We play jenga and even foosball or as they call it metro gol. Their generosity is amazing and seemingly never ending.

Notes from the Field

2009-02-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

Notes from the Field: Scott Scherbinski
September 30, 2008, Field Work

Everyone traveling to Sierra Paileman for the release has returned home, the newest group of birds has been out for just under two weeks and condor 26 was returned to the flight pen one week ago. It is back to the Paileman field crew, Walter, Mauricio, Marcelo, volunteer Ana from Brazil and myself tracking and observing the condors. We have been observing the three young birds as they make their first awkward flights and even more awkward landings. A few of the older condors, including the apparently inseparable duo of 4 and 6, have been passing through to check out and haze the new birds. 26 has fed and is looking strong inside the flight pen. Hopefully we will be able to release her soon.

As we take turns watching the condors and brewing mate, we have time to talk about the challenges of the project. We rehash the series of events that lead to bringing 26 back into captivity and hypothesis about ways to make releasing captive bred condors into the wild more efficient. The crew here has been impressed with the system of scales and cameras we use in California to track the weights of condors in the field. With known weights of these birds it can be easier to assess their health and help to make management decisions. As Denise and Jim have discussed with Luis and Vanessa, this seems like a great opportunity to collaborate and support the project here in Paileman.

When I ask the field crew what aspect of the project they feel is important, they all say “Education.” Here in Argentina, as in California, there are practices that unintentionally affect the condors and other non-target species. Local rancher use highly toxic poisons to control predator population. Unfortunately condors have fed on these laced carcasses and died. It is the same story in California, where we use rifles and, typically, lead ammunition to control predators. Condors feeding on these carcasses risk possible lead poisoning. The crew here talks about educational trips to local schools were they discuss the biology and cultural aspects of the Andean Condor with the students. They also discuss captive breeding efforts and threats to condors in the wild. In addition to this the crew travels through the area talking and working with ranchers to find alternative methods to reduce risks to non-target species. Again, I am amazed to hear how similar these efforts are to our efforts in California and how the crew here accomplishes all of this work. It definitely gives me an appreciation for the crew and resources we have at Pinnacles.

Summary of Pan American Partnership in Condor Restoration

2009-01-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

PanAmerican Partnership in Condor Restoration 2009

The giant scavenger with a 9 ½ foot wingspan that once soared over woolly mammoths still exists today, but just barely. In the 1980’s there were only 22 California condors left in the world. Since that time, through dedicated efforts of scientists and citizens, we are at just over 300. The same endangered plight is occurring in South America with cousin, the Andean condor. To share in conservation efforts and raise the profile of these endangered animals across continents, Pinnacles National Monument with counterparts in California and Argentina have formed a PanAmerican Partnership in Condor Restoration.

Thanks to generous grants from the National Park Foundation, San Juan Bautista Rotary Club and Pinnacles Partnership, a National Park Service team of Pinnacles condor biologists and managers went to Argentina in September 2008 to begin the exchange. The Andean condor ranges throughout much of South America. It is a close cousin of the California condor, where conservation strategies between the two condor species are very similar from both a biological and cultural perspective.

Accomplishments of the recent visit included:
1. Established a condor biologist exchange to share innovative technology and conservation methods. Pinnacles condor biologist Scott Scherbinski spent 6 weeks working intensively with the Argentine condor program.

Immediate benefits to the California program include using an innovative script developed by Argentine biologists that applies Google Earth to present the distribution and range of condors over time. This works well using the data collected from condors with wing mounted GPS transmitters. Other benefits include experiencing first hand the impressive close cultural connections in the Argentine program where local ranching communities and indigenous groups are key supporters and advocates for condor conservation. We are using this model to increase our efforts in this realm. For example, the Amah Mutsun tribe was a prominent participant in the November 2008 condor release ceremony - performing songs and stories about the cultural significance of the condor.

Pinnacles biologists identified ways in which the Argentina program could benefit from our methods. The first priority is to install a remotely triggered camera pointed at scale with a perch so that the Andean condors’ weight can be measured non-invasively. Our partners from the Ventana Wildlife Society will assist in making this purchase possible.

We are also providing a comprehensive literature review to a condor researcher at the University of Cordoba in Argentina.

2. Preparing a Memorandum of Agreement with a “sister park” Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito in the Argentine province of Cordoba. The 5 year agreement outlines commonalities between our parks and a desire to collaborate in condor related issues, but also in general park operations such as visitor services, trails, fire management, invasive species control and law enforcement.

3. Creating a tangible product of our partnership - a customized reusable bag with project logo and partners listed that acts as both a walking billboard from proud supporters and a project fundraiser. The bag also supports the ethic to lessen the use of disposable plastic bags - a chronic threat to wildlife around the world.

Goals of the PanAmerican Partnership in 2009:
1. Enable Argentine counterparts to tour California program. Bring one biologist and one park manager to California in 2009.

Measureable outcomes in 2009 include:
a) identify additional collaborative benefits.
b) receive Google Earth script from Fundacion Bioandina and apply to Pinnacles distribution data.
c) receive guidance from Fundacion Bioandina in improving the cultural aspects of condor reintroduction through closer connections to the ranching and indigenous communities (for example, we were provided some key contacts in North America to help us foster this effort in the indigenous community).
d) submit a joint grant proposal to address the major threat on both continents - secondary poisoning.
e) gain interest from a major periodical to highlight this PanAmerican effort.
f) finalize Memorandum of Agreement with Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito.
g) provide a remote camera and scale to the Argentina condor program (Fundacion Bioandina).
h) produce customized reuseable bag and find vendors for its distribution and sale in the United States and Argentina.

Trabajo de campo tras la liberación de 4 condoritos

2008-10-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

English Version

After the 4 juvenile condors were released on September 18, the hard work and excitement really began!. Scott and Jim really enjoyed the opportunity to work alongside the hard-working and dedicated field biologists with BioAndina, including Walter, Mauricio, Marcelo, Luis, and Vanesa. They were all an inspiration to us, and we are eager to bring back some of their ideas and techniques to aply to the California Condor program in the US.

One of the newly released birds, #26 had difficulty returning to the hills where the flight pen was located due to the presence of strong winds blowing her in the opposite direction. After following her for 3 days, she was almost 15 km away from the flight pen and due to the flat terrain, it appeared that she would be unable to make the flight back on her own. So we tracked her using the radiotelemetry transmitter she was wearing and caught up with her around 11 at night standing in creosote bushes out in the flats. After sneaking up as close as we could, we made a mad running dash towards her, and Walter managed to grab her body, while Scott grabbed a wing. I put my jacket over her head and we then were able to safely restrain her so we could make the 2 kilometer walk back to the truck, where the transport kennel was waiting. Then we brought her back to the flight pen so that she could rest up and eat and drink before letting her free again.

Version Espanol

Después de los 4 cóndores juveniles fueron liberados el 18 de septiembre, el trabajo duro y la emoción comenzaron de veras!. Scott y Jim disfrutaron de la oportunidad de trabajar juntos con los trabajosos y dedicados biólogos de BioAndina, Walter, Mauricio, Marcelo, Luis y Vanesa. Ellos nos inspiraron a todos, y estamos dispuestos a llevar algunos de sus ideas y técnicas a California para aplicarlos al programa del condor californiano.

Uno de pichones recien-liberados, # 26, tuvo dificultad en regresar a las colinas, donde esta ubicado la jaula de aprendizaje de vuelo, debido a la presencia de fuertes vientos que soplaban en contra. Después de seguirla por 3 días, ella estaba casi 15 km de distancia del vuelo de la jaula de aprendizaje de vuelo. Debido al terreno plano, parecía que ella era incapaz de regresar por su cuenta. Por lo tanto, la seguimos por radiotelemetry utilizando el transmisor que llevaba y nos encontramos con ella cerca de las 11 en la noche. Ella estaba parada en el medio de unos arbustos creosotos. Después de acercarnos a ella tan cerca como podiamos, corrimos como locos hacia ella, y Walter logro agarrarla por su cuerpo mientras Scott agarro a su ala. Puse mi chaqueta encima de su cabeza y asi pudimos restringirla mientras caminabamos los 2 kilometros a la camioneta con la jaula de transporte. La trajimos de vuelta a la jaula de aprendizaje de vuelo para que pudiera descansar y comer y beber antes liberarla otra vez.

Mas fotitos (More photos)

2008-10-22T20:04:00.001-07:00

English Version:
Friends: Our Condor Release Ceremony for 7 condor juveniles is fast approaching (November 1). Scott will be returning to California in three days and we are looking forward to hearing his good news about his time in Sierra Paileman, Patagonia Argentina. I received heart felt well wishes via email from indigenous leaders / supporters of the Andean condor program:

From Nelson Marcelo Diaz Altamirano from Peru
First in Quechua:
YAU CUNTUR MALLCU
PAHUAYLLA PAHUARISHCANQUI
TAHUANTINSUYUMAN
CAUSAINIYKU WILLARIMUY

In English:
Great and powerful spirit of the mountains
you who fly and are flying
to the four corners of the universe
carry this, our true message of brotherhood

From Tayta Ullpu Quechua de la Nacion Qolla
I want to express my sincere desires for freedom for the the Californian Condor, as for the Kunturi del Tawantinsuyu. May the the spirit of the condors give us sufficient strength to understand and honor these sacred birds like the original peoples of every land. Our hearts are and will be with them forever when it is understood that the sacred is respected, protected, and recognized, together with our guardians of space and time. A hug from Argentina for this release. May there be many more.

[The photos depicting children from Sierra Paileman and the young condors were taken by Heinz Plengue].

Version Espanol
Amigos:

Nuestra ceremonia de liberacion para 7 condoritos esta por llegar (1 de Noviembre). Scott regresa a California en tres dias, y estamos esperando para noticias buenas sobre su estadia en Sierra Paileman, Patagonia Argentina. Recibi mensajes lindas por email de lideres indigenas /amigos de la programa condor andina para nosotros:

Por NELSON MARCELO DIAZ ALTAMIRANO de Peru (primero en la idioma Quechua)

YAU CUNTUR MALLCU
PAHUAYLLA PAHUARISHCANQUI
TAHUANTINSUYUMAN
CAUSAINIYKU WILLARIMUY

gran y poderoso espiritu de las montañas
tu que vuelas y estas volando
a las cuatro esquinas del universo
lleva este nuestro verdadero mensaje de confraternidad
__________________________________________
Por Tayta Ullpu Quechua de la Nacion Qolla

Quiero expresar mis mas sinceros deseos de libertad para los Còndores de California
como tambien para el Kunturi del Tawantinsuyu, Que el espìritu de los Condores nos den la fuerza suficiente para entender y honrar a estas aves Sagradas como Pueblos Originarios de cada Confederacion.
Nuestros corazones estan y estaran con ellos por siempre cuando haya entendimiento
que lo sagrado se respeta, se protege, y se lo reconoce junto anuestros Guardianes del tiempo Espacio.
Un abrazo desde Argentina para esta liberaciòn ojalá que sean muchos mas.

____________________________________________

Las fotitos de los ninos de Sierra Paileman y de los condoritos: por Heinz Plengue.

8 Octubre 2008

2008-10-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

Version Espanol (See below for English version): La mayoria del equipo ya regreso a California. Scott recien salio del lugar de trabajo en Paileman y me mando el siguiente mensaje (redactado por mi):

Mi tiempo en Paileman ha sido increible: asado con un campesino local, la compra de una vaca muerta para alimentar a los condores, el re-soltar al condor numero 26 (el viento la volo muy lejos del lugar donde la soltamos), y nidos de aguilamora. Me quedo aqui la mayoria de mi tiempo en Argentina, y regreso a Buenos Aires el 21 o 22 de Octubre. Salgo de Buenos Aires el 24. Este domingo regreso al lugar de trabajo en Paileman con un profesor de Rio Negro que nos acompana para dar una charla en la escuela local y con los vecinos. Tambien existe la posibilidad de visitar el lugar en el suroeste donde estan la mayoria de los condores. Deafortunadamente, no voy a poder regresar a Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. Le voy a mandar un mail a German para avisarlo. Cuando regreso a Buenos Aires a fin de mes, voy a intentar parar en La Plata para visitar el zoologico y el proyecto de condor alla.

Esto es una experiencia increible. -- Scott Scherbinski

Estamos empezando a escribir un acuerdo para establecer una relacion de parque hermana con Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. Cuando tenemos un borrador, se lo mandamos a APN y a Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito para que lo revisan. Se han generado muchos ideas. Como proximo paso, tenemos que buscar financiamiento para poder traer por lo menos un profesional de Argentina a Pinnacles en 2009. Pinnacles Partnership y los clubes locales de Rotary Internacional ya estan viendo como pueden ayudarnos.

El equipo de Pinnacles esta preparando para soltar condors cerca de la entrada este del Parque el 1 de Noviembre. Este evento ha generado bastante interes y esperamos a unos 500 personas para el evento. Como recien regresamos de una ceremonia parecida en Paileman, quedamos inspirados hacer un puente entre las dos ceremonias. Durante la ceremonia en Paileman, Luis Jacome (el director del programa de conservacion andina argentina) dijo que las entidades variadas trabajando juntas -demuestra que cada uno de nosotros tiene un papel importante en la conservacion de vida silvestre y lo conservacion de habitat. Cada uno de nosotros contribuye al esfuerzo como si fueramos plumas en un condor. Hay plumas blancas, plumas negras, plumas grandes y plumas pequenas. Sin respecto al color o tamano, cada uno tiene juega un rol para que el condor pueda volar.-

El programa de Conservacion Andina Argentina y el programa de Recuperacion del Condor Californiano demuestran la necesidad (y los exitos) de en enfoque colaborativo en cuanto a los especies en peligro de extinguirse. Como las plumas en el ala de un condor, todos nosotros tenemos un papel en salvar estos especies magnificos.

Un puente muy fuerte entre las dos ceremonias es a traves de los chicos de Sierra Paileman y los chicos de las escuelas rurales cerca de Pinnacles National Monument. Para la ceremonia en Paileman, los chicos habian hecho plumas de papel con sus deseos escritos atras, como -espero que todos los condores esten libres- y -espero que los condores dejan de morir envenenados-. Con plumas verdaderas, se subieron al la Meseta y se elevaron las plumas al cielo, para simbolizar al condor como mensajero entre la tierra y el cielo. Mientras tanto, los adultos recibieron a las plumas de papel para elevarlos al cielo y guardarlos (ver foto abajo).

Cuando soltamos a los condores en Pinnacles, vamos a tener algunas plumas papeles de Argentina con los deseos de los estudiantes. Tambien vamos a tener plumas de papel de nuestros estudiantes de las escuelas rurales y de los vecinos de Pinnacles. Si quieren participar, pueden mandar plumas de papel a: Denise Louie; 5000 Highway 146; Paicines, California 95043 USA

English Version
Most of the Team is now back in California, meanwhile Scott just came out of the field in Sierra Paileman for a couple of days and sent me this message (with minor edits made by me):

"My time in Paileman has been incredible, asado with a local rancher, the purchase of a dead cow for condor food, re-release of condor 26 (she had been blown by wind currents too far away from the release site), and aguila mora nests. I will remain at Paileman for the remainder of my time here and return to Buenos Aires on October 21st or 22nd. I fly out on the 24th. On Sunday, I return back to the field when a teacher from Rio Negro will join us and talk at the school and with the local neighbors. There is also potential to visit the site in the southwest where the majority of the condors now spend their time. Unfortunately, I will not be able to return back to Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. I will be sure to email German (chief ranger) and let him know. On my way back to Buenos Aires, I will also try to stop in La Plata and visit the zoo and condor project there briefly.

This is an incredible experience." ---- Scott Scherbinski

We are now starting to draft a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a sister park relationship with Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito, for feedback from both the Argentina National Park Administration and P.N. Quebrada del Condorito. Many ideas are being generated. Our next step is for our partners to secure sufficient resources to bring at least one Argentine partner to California in 2009. Our partners, Pinnacles Partnership and local California Rotary Clubs, are already talking about how they can help.

The Pinnacles Team is now preparing for our condor release at the east entrance of Pinnacles National Monument on November 1. The word is getting out and we are expecting more than 500 spectators. Having just returned from the Andean condor release ceremony in Sierra Paileman, we are inspired to bridge the two ceremonies. At the ceremony in Sierra Paileman, Luis Jacome - Director of the Argentine Andean Conservation Project, spoke about the many entities working together "demonstrates that each of us has an important role to play in wildlife and habitat conservation; each one of us contributes to a larger goal as if we were feathers on a condor. There are white feathers and black feathers, big feathers and small feathers, yet regardless of color or form, each feather has a role to play in order to allow the condor to fly again.”

The Andean Condor Conservation Project and the California Condor Recovery Program demonstrate the need for (and success from) collaborative approaches to endangered species conservation. Like feathers on a condor, we all have a role to play as partners in the survival of these magnificent species.

One bridge is through the children of Sierra Paileman and those in the rural schools surrounding Pinnacles. At the Sierra Paileman ceremony, school children had made condor feathers with wishes written on the back such as, "I wish all the condors to be free." and "I wish no more condors will die of poisoning." With real feathers, the Paileman school children hiked to the top of the mesa and lifted the feathers to the sky - symbolizing the condor as messenger between earth and sky and the delivery of our wishes. Meanwhile, the adults received these paper condor feathers to raise to the sky and then keep them (see photo).

At the Pinnacles release, we will have paper feathers from Argentina with the students' wishes. We will also have paper feathers from our rural school students and community members surrounding Pinnacles. If you would like to send us yours, mail them to: Denise Louie; 5000 Highway 146; Paicines, California 95043 USA.

21 Septiembre 2008

2008-09-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

Version Espanol (See english below): Dos miembros del equipo de Pinnacles se quedaron en Sierra Paileman (Provincia de Rio Negro), trabajando con biologos que trabajan con el condor andino. Van a ayudar a seguir 4 condores andinos recien soltados. Ellos aseguran que los condores estan en buenas condiciones mientras practican volar en su hogar nuevo y mientras se integran en la poblacion de condores soltados anteriormente. El condor andino fue extirpado de la costa atlantica desde hace 160 anos. Hace 7 anos, la fundacion Bioandina empezo un programa de criar y soltar condores en La Meseta de Somuncura, una meseta basaltica muy grande que tiene uno de las mas grandes poblaciones de guanaco en sudamerica y una presencia cultural muy rica de gente muy fuertamente vinculada con la tierra y sus antepasados. La Meseta esta en dos provincias - Rio Negro y Chubut.

Se soltaron 4 condores andinos el 18 de Septiembre, un evento muy emocionante y lleno de alegria. Se juntaron mucha gente que apoya el proyecto, incluso miembros de la comunidad, chicos de la escuela local, y biologos, para observar estos 4 ejemplares regresar a la costa atlantica.

Denise se despidio al grupo anoche para regresar a California despues de dos semanas muy inspirantes durante la cual tuvo la oportunidad de conocer a gente de Rotary International, APN, investigadores trabajando con condores, y gente de las comunidades locales. Seguimos con mas informacion cuando Denise esta en California.

English Version: Two members of the Pinnacles Team are still in Sierra Pailman (Rio Negro), working directly with Andean condor biologists to track 4 newly released Andean condors. They are making sure the birds are in fine condition as they practice flying for the first time in their new home and integrate into the population of previously released condors. The Andean condor was extirpated from the Atlantic coast for over 160 years until 7 years ago when Fundacion Bioandina started a condor release program on La Meseta de Somuncura, a large basaltic uplift home to one of the largest guanaco populations in South America and a rich cultural presence of people tied closely to the land and their ancestors. La Meseta occupies two provinces - Rio Negro and Chubut.

The release of 4 Andean condors on September 18 was a heartwarming and joyful event as project partners, supporters, community members, local school children and biologists gathered to witness more Andean condors return to the Atlantic coast.

Denise left the team lastnight to return back to California after an inspiring two weeks meeting Argentine National Park staff, condor researchers, local community members, Rotary International members and condor enthusiasts from around the world.

More details in the next post when Denise is back in the United States.

14 Septiembre 2008

2008-09-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas

Version espanol: (see English version below) Pasamos dos dias espectaculares en Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas, conocimos al personal del parque y salimos a hacer trekking por el terreno del parque, que es muy parecido a algunos de nuestros parques nacionales en el desierto del suroeste de los Estados Unidos. Nos encontramos otra vez con Carolina Garguilo, una investigadora de la Universidad de Cordoba que tiene un proyecto de investigacion con los condores andinos. Conocimos el lugar en el parque donde ella esta trabajando, y observemos sus metodos de censo.

Aprendimos de los desafios que que enfrentamos tanto en Pinnacles National Monument como el Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas, como la lucha en contra las plantas y los animales invasores. Compartimos con los guardaparques lo que hemos aprendido sobre la amenaza de las municiones de plomo a la salud de los condores y otra vida silvestre.

Ahora salimos para Rio Negro (Sierra Paileman), al lugar donde se van a soltar 4 condores Andinos el 18 de Septiembre. No tendremos contacto durante esta semana por que no hay conecciones de internet. Hasta la proxima.

English version: We spent 2 wonderful days in P.N. Sierra de las Quijadas, meeting great park staff and taking a couple of hikes into the vast terrain that looks very similar to some of our national parks in the desert southwest. We met up again with Caroline Gargiulo, a condor researcher from the University of Cordoba - seeing her research site and inventory methods.

We learned about common challenges, such as the fight against invasive plants and animals. We shared with the park rangers about the dangers of lead ammunition to condors and other wildlife.

We are now headed to Rio Negro (Sierra Pailean) Andean condor release site for the 18 Sept. release of 4 condors and will be out of contact for the next week since there is no internet connection here.

12 Septiembre 2008

2008-09-13T04:26:00.000-07:00

Version espanol (see English version below): Nuestro equipo llego a Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito la manana del 11 de Septiembre, a al llegar, nos impresiono la belleza del ambiente. El paisaje enorme, las gramineas nativas, y las rocas basalticas son impresionantes. En California, muchos de las gramineas nativas han sido reemplazadas por gramineas exoticas.

Nos encontremos con personal del parque y fuimos al balcon norte donde tuvimos una vista increible de la Quebrada del Condorito. Mientras la neblina fuera disminuyendo, vimos un grupo de 20-25 condores Andinos posados y volando cerca de unos banos de agua en los huecos de las piedras. Los condores usan a los banos para banarse y para descansar, despues de tanto tiempo volando buscando comida.

Tuvimos el suerte de ver grupos de 15 condores posados en los banos y hasta 10 volando en el aire. Cuando vimos a estos aves volando en el cielo, nos quedo impresionado que parecido estan a los condores Californianos. Estuvimos muy entusiasmados por ver condores nacidos en lugares naturales. Todos los condores Californianos tienen numeros en sus alas y los monitorean los biologos muy cuidadosamente todos los dias.

Conversamos con nuestros companeros del Condorito hasta muy tarde, y seguimos la manana siguiente mientras tomamos mate. Compartimos las experiencias y los desafios en cuanto al manejo de Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito y Pinnacles National Monument. Son parecidos los dos parques, tenemos recursos naturales en comun, y tenemos desafios de manejo en comun. Desde esa oportunidad muy breve pero intensa de conocernos, nos dimos cuenta de que somos una pareja muy adecuada para ser parques hermanas, y que formar tal relacion seria una oportunidad muy buena para ambos parques. Les agradezco a nuestros nuevos amigos de Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito su hospitalidad y su amistad.

El dia siguiente (el 12 de Septiembre) un grupo de Cordoba canal 12 vino al parque para preguntarnos sobre nuesta visita y tratar de filmar a los condores. Tuvimos suerte que, con un poquito de nieve de la noche anterior y mucho sol, salieron aun mas condores a volar y banarse que el dia anterior. El grupo que vino a filmar salio muy contento.

Tambien hablamos con un grupo de estudiantes en su ultimo ano de una escuela secundaria cercana. Ellos estaban casi tan entusiasmados con los condores que nosotros.

Salimos del parque en la tarde, con rumbo a Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas en la provincia de San Luis donde esperemos conocer a la gente del parque y conocoer a una poblacion diferente de condores. Tambien esperemos poder observar algunas investigaciones sobre condores.

Abajo pueden ver algunos videos de nuestro visita.

English Version: Our team arrived at Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito the morning of September 11 and we were immediately struck by the beauty of the surroundings. The vast landscape of native perennial bunch grasses and basaltic rock outcrops is impressive. In California, the native perennial bunch grass community has been largely displaced by exotic annual grasses.

We met with park staff and then headed out to an overlook that gave us an impressive view of the Rio Condorito canyon. As the fog lifted we saw a group of 20-25 Andean condors resting and flying near large pools of water that had formed in the depressions in the rocks. The condors use these pools to bath and rest after they spend much time during the day flying over the surrounding countryside looking for food.

We were lucky to see groups of 15 condors resting at the main bathing spot and as many as 10 condors flying in the air near us. When we saw these giant birds soaring overhead in the sky, we were impressed with how similar the Andean condors looked compared to California condors and also thrilled to see truely wild condors. In contrast, all California condors have numbered tags on their wings and are closely monitored by biologists daily.

Conversations with park staff and our Pinnacles team continued through the night and the next morning where we compared notes on many similar park operations. We also enjoyed cultural aspects of drinking mate together and learning about our different challenges in park administration and natural resource protection. From this brief, but intensive opportunity to get to know one another, we determined that a sister park relationship between our parks was a great fit and would be an exciting opportunity for us both! A letter of intent for cooperation between our two parks will be drafted next week. The Pinnacles staff are very thankful for the warm hospitality of our new partners.

On Friday, September 12, a news team from a provincial television station (Cordoba Canel 12) came to the park to ask us about our goals for the trip and try to get some footage of condors. We lucked out, with snow on the ground from the previous evening and beautiful sunny skies, there were even more condors flying and bathing than the previous day. The film crew was not disappointed with the great condor show.

We also talked with a group of seniors from a local high school. Their enthusiasm matched ours as the condors soared overhead.

Leaving the park in the late afternoon, we headed towards Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas in the province of San Luis where we will spend the weekend talking with park staff and looking at a different group of condors. We will also observe condor research being conducted in the park.

The video clips were taken 12 Sept in Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito.

9 de Septiembre

2008-09-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

Version espanol (see below for English version): Nuestro segundo dia, el 9 de Septiembre, el equipo se dividio en dos. Los biologos Scott Scherbinski and Jim Petterson regresaron al zoologico para reunir con los biologos que trabajan alli mientras Eric Brunnemann, Kate Hammond y Denise Louie se reunieron con representantes de la Embajada de los Estados Unidos para informarles sobre el proyecto y explorar como el proyecto cae adentro de los iniciativos diplomaticos entre Argentina y EEUU. Despues fuimos a una reunion en la oficina central de la Administracion de Parques Nacionales (APN) para charlar sobre las posibilidades de un acuerdo entre Pinnacles National Monument y un parque en Argentina para establecer una relacion de "parque hermano". Nos recibieron muy bien, y comparamos nuestros experiencias. Hubo mucho entusiasmo por trabajar juntos y por el hermanamiento de algunos parques nacionales de Argentina con algunos parques nacionales de los Estados Unidos. Ing. Agr. Hector Espina (Presidente del Directorio de APN), Dra. Patricia Gandini (Vice Presidente del Directorio de APN), Lic. Ana Balabusic (APN), Lic. Florencia Menzio (APN), Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores Claudio Rojo, y Lic. Maria Menzio de la Programa de Relaciones Institucionales y Cooperacion Internacional expresaron su apoyo por el programa de condores en Pinnacles National Monument y su interes en buscar maneras de trabajar en forma conjunto en cuanto a temas de interpretacion, educacion, y, por supuesto, conservacion del condor. Vamos a explorar las opciones mientras visitamos a Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito y Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas. Esperemos que, en los meses despues de nuestro visita, podamos trabajar con nuestras colegas de APN para escribir y firmar un acuerdo formal.

Como mencionamos arriba, el equipo va a visitar a dos parques nacionales donde vuelen los condores: Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito en Cordoba y Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas en Provincia de San Luis. El equipo va a conocer a la gente que trabaja alli, los recursos del parque, los desafios de manejo, y charlar con la gente de APN de los parques para ver las posibilidades de colaborar.

On our second day, Sept. 9, the Team split into two groups. Biologists Scott Scherbinski and Jim Petterson went back to meet with Andean condor biologists at the Jardin Zoologico de Buenos Aires, while Eric Brunnemann, Kate Hammond and Denise Louie met briefly with U.S. Embassy personnel to discuss aspects of our specific project and how it ties in with mutual interests between the United States and Argentina. We then went to the headquarters of the Argentine National Park Administration to meet with ministry officials to speak about the possibilities of a park to park agreement to form a sister park relationship. The atmosphere was extremely cordial and exciting as our two park service agencies compared our mutual interests and scientific experiences. Ing. Agr. Hector Espina (Presidente del Directorio), Dr. Patricia Gandini (Vice President del Directorio), Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores Claudio Rojo, and Lic. Maria Menzio of the Programa de Relaciones Institucionales y Cooperation Internacional, were extremely supportive of joint cooperation with Pinnacles National Monument, on a variety of levels including education, interpretation, facilities, ranger programs, and of course, condors. Superintendent Brunnemann and Directors Espina and Gandini will attempt to sign a “letter of intent” for prior to our departure--if time permits. And then once back in California, Kate Hammond together with Eric and our regional directorate will draft an official Agreement for signature later this year or early next, after we’ve visited with staff at the parks.

Our Team will be visiting at least two Argentine national parks where condors soar to meet park personnel and experience these parks and the surrounding communities to investigate if an agreement is mutually beneficial. Today we are headed to Cordoba to meet with park staff at Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito. We also hope to meet with Rotary International folks in both Cordoba and Villa Carlos Paz, a gateway town to the national park. Biologists Scott, Jim and Denise will continue on to the province of San Luis to visit Parque Nacional Sierra de las Quijadas, while meeting a condor researcher from the University of Cordoba as well.

In the afternoon of September 9, a press conference was arranged by the Pacific West Region of the National Park Service and the U.S. Embassy that involved both print and television media. The objectives of the Team’s visit are in some of the national and local papers and websites today.

http://www.lanacion.com.ar/nota.asp?nota_id=1048207

http://www.p23.com.ar/index.php?s=!notas-ver$$$W0821saxrm4aq4dcou002rb&referer=SF%2BHbRQMktFdud7wtXaXzmeJQbIMeUwJTrTDOkZvx9mIoJILCAgfSjDU2vWzAr2YqsHbQopPlkuA68CdDLKlMo8%3D%5E_933

10 Sept 08

2008-09-10T06:44:00.000-07:00

Versión español: (See English version below) Nuestro primer dia en Argentina, 8 Sept 2008, nos reunimos con algunos de los mejores biólogos trabajando con la conservación del cóndor Andino que trabajan en el Jardín Zoológico de Buenos Aires. Un website muy bueno para más información sobre el proyecto Argentino sobre el cóndor andino se encuentra en http://www.bioandina.org.ar/bioandina2/Index.asp. Más infomación sobre el programa de reintroducir el cóndor californiano en Pinnacles National Monument se encuentra en http://www.nps.gov/pinn/naturescience/condors.htm.

Los biólogos, Vanesa Astore y Luis Jacome, explicaron su programa en detalle y nos dieron una visita guiada de sus instalaciones donde se crian cóndores y se rehabilitan cóndores lastimados. Vimos el primer huevo de la época, cuidadosamente guardado. Pueden ver el video.

Nosotros que trabajamos con la conservación del cóndor californiano en Pinnacles National Monument esperemos aprender del script de GIS/Google Earth que se usa en el zoológico para demostrar el rango y la distribución de los cóndores individuos que tienen transmisores de GPS en sus alas. En Pinnacles National Monument también usamos GIS y GPS pero si adoptamos lo que se hace en Argentina podemos mejorar como vemos y demostremos la información sobre las ubicaciónes de los cóndores y sus rangos.

Otra parte que nos impresionó mucho del programa de conservación del condór andino es la enfasís en la parte cultural tanto como la parte científica. Prestan mucha atención en establecer relaciones con las comunidades locales tanto como las comunidades indígenas. Estas esfuerzas hacen que las comunidades locales se sienten muy orgullosas de sus cóndores y están muy motivadas en colaborar en su conservación. Nos explicaron los biólogos Argentinos que cuando la gente local se siente emocianado por los cóndores, no hay tanta necesidad de programas de conservación.

Una idea concreta que surgió de este primer dia fue la idea de trabajar con un grupo privado para desarrola una bolsa que se puede reutilizar con un diseño de un cóndor que demuestra el orgullo en el cóndor, y además demuestra el logo del grupo privado. Estas bolsas se pondrían en la venta (a un precio alcanzable) en las comunidades cercanas a Sierra Paileman en provincia de Rio Negro donde se sueltan los cóndores. El propósito de este esfuerzo seria reducir el uso de bolsas de plastico descartables que contaminan el ambiente, además de reenforzar el orgullo en el cóndor. También se puede vender las bolsas en EEUU.

Explicación de Video:
Abajo pueden ver un video de un huevo de cóndor en el Jardín Zoológico en Bs As y pueden observar el trabajo bien difícil de cuidar estos huevos. El Zoológico de Buenos Aires tiene mas de 15 años de experiencia trabajando con los cóndores. Cuando sea posible, los huevos puesto en cautiverio son criadas por sus padres cóndores.

English Version: On our first day 8 Sept 08, we met with some of the leading biologists in Andean condor conservation at the Jardin Zoologico de Buenos Aires. A great website for more information about the Andean condor project based in Argentina can be found at http://www.bioandina.org.ar/bioandina2/Index.asp. For more information about the Pinnacles National Monument condor reintroduction program see: http://www.nps.gov/pinn/naturescience/condors.htm

The biologists, Vanesa Astore and Luis Jacome, explained their program in detail and also provided a tour of their condor breeding facilities and procedures along with rehabilitation facilities for injured condors. We also viewed the first egg of the season, carefully monitored and tended (see video).

One of the benefits our California condor program at Pinnacles can gain from this relationship is a state of the art GIS / Google Earth script used by Zoo biologists that visually demonstrates range and distribution of individual birds that have GPS transmitters on their wings. At Pinnacles, we also use GPS/ GIS technology but we can improve how we display/visualize distribution and range information by adopting the Argentine biologists’ procedure.

Another impressive part of the Andean Condor project is the emphasis in both science AND culture to protect the condor. Great attention is given to nurturing relationships with local and indigenous communities. Education along with the community feeling great pride in having condors soaring the landscape is as important as the biology. Among other beliefs, the condor is a link between earth and heaven. The Argentine biologists explained that when the condor is in the peoples’ heart, there is no need for conservation.

One action item from this first day is to collaborate (using park partners) on producing a reusable bag with a design that conveys pride in the condor, along with logos of partners. This bag will be for sale at a very reasonable price in the towns closest to the Sierra Paileman release site in the province of Rio Negro. The purpose is to both reduce the use of plastic bags that pollute the surrounding environment and display pride in helping the condor. This bag can also be sold in the United States through park partners.

Video Caption 1 (Egg handling at the BsAs Zoo):
The Buenos Aires Zoo has been breeding Andean Condors in captivity for over 15 years. Whenever possible, any eggs that are laid by a breeding pair of condors are raised by their parents. In order to maximize the number of condors available for release into the wild, a technique called “double-clutching” is used where the first egg that is laid is pulled, which causes the pair to lay another one. The second egg is incubated and raised by the pair of condors and the first egg is put into an artificial incubator. In this clip Vanesa demonstrates to us how they weigh the condor eggs to make sure that they are developing properly. She does this by monitoring the weight of the eggs, which will change as the chick developing inside the egg increases in size. Notice how at the end when she puts the egg back into the incubator she turns the egg, to simulate the parent doing so in the nest.

Video Caption 2
Those eggs that hatch that have been in the incubator are placed in an artificial “nest box” where they will remain for their first 4 months of life. In order for the birds not to get imprinted to humans, the zoo handlers use realistic looking Andean condor puppets that are inserted through a hole in the side of the nest box. In this way, the condor chicks behave more naturally once they are released back into the wild. Biologists in Argentina and the United States have worked together to learn from each other and these same captive breeding techniques have been used to raise California Condors in the United States.

Video Caption 3
Condors are among the longest living species of birds in the world. The female adult Andean Condor shown here is more than 60 years old and she has produced many young condors over the years while in captivity. In fact, she only very recently stopped breeding. Here you can see her taking a drink. Notice how fast she moves her tongue to take up the water.

Dia 2 en Argentina

2008-09-09T15:46:00.001-07:00

En Español (see English version below): Nuestro primer dia en Argentina nos fue muy bien, mejor de lo que podiamos haber imaginado. Nos reunimos con algunos de los mejores cientificos trabajando con el condor Andino en Sudamerica que trabajan con el Jardin Zoologico de Buenos Aires. Ya tenemos algunas ideas concretas para colaborar. Vamos a escribir mas sobre nuestra visita con ellos en la proxima posting.

El segundo día fue tambien muy productivo. Reunimos con representantes de la Administración de Parques Nacionales (APN) en Buenos Aires para hablar sobre sus esfuerzas en cuanto a la preservación de cóndores y también para explorar la idea de buscar un parque hermano Argentino para Pinnacles National Monument. Depués de la reunión con APN fuimos a una conferencia de prensa organizado por la Embajada de Los Estados Unidos donde hablabamos con representantes de los medios de prensa, incluso diarios y estaciones de tele. Los agracedemos la presencia de representantes de Rotary Internacional, ambos de los Estados Unidos y de Argentina, que nos dan apoyo con este proyecto.

Estos primeros dos días han sido muy productivos. Conocimos mucha gente, tuvimos reuniones muy productivos, y ya surgieron muchas ideas de como podemos colaborar en cuanto a la conservacion del cóndor. Se la agradecemos la ayuda de APN, Fundación BioAndina, La Embajada de EEUU, y Rotary Internacional en hacer que estos dias sean tan productivos. Salimos esta tarde para Córdoba.

In English: Our first full day in Buenos Aires was incredibly productive, meeting with some of the top Andean condor biologists in South America at the Jardin Zoologico de Buenos Aires. We already have some action items for collaboration. We will write more about this experience in the next post.

Day 2 was once again very productive, meeting with representatives from the U.S. Embassy and the Argentine National Park Administration. We will also have alot to say about this in the next posting. We ended the day with a press conference at the U.S. Embassy arranged by PWR´s Holly Bundock and Embassy personnel. Both print and television media were in attendance, mostly Argentine press plus the AP. This was a whirlwind of attention, questions and interviews. We were so grateful to have one of our partners in attendance, representatives from Rotary International both in Argentina and from California.

I must say the first two days have been full of great meetings, contacts, learning and ideas towards making this effort real and mutually beneficial. Back again soon.

Denise Louie

2008-09-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Un equipo de científicos del Pinnacles National Monument (California), uno de los 391 parques del Servicio de Parques Nacionales de EEUU, visita la Argentina para trabajar con la Administración de Parques Nacionales y otras instituciones argentinas en programas de preservación de cóndores.

En Pinnacle National Monument, una webcam fotografía a los cóndores en su hábitat natural.

English Version:
A team of biologists and managers from Pinnacles National Monument (California), one of the 391 park units of the USA National Park Service, is visiting Argentina to work with the Administration of National Parks (Argentina) and other Argentine institutions working in condor preservation. The photograph is from Pinnacles National Monument webcam showing the condors in their natural habitat.