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Reducing California Condor Exposure to LeadReducing California Condor Exposure to Lead California CondorGymnogyps californianus Utah Wildlife in Need will work directly with Southern Utah hunters, local conservation groups and government agencies to reduce the consumption of lead by California Condors. Condors consume lead bullet fragments when they feed on the remains of hunted big game animals in Southern Utah. Consumption of lead fragments by California Condors causes serious illness and death. It is one of the biggest impediments to the successful recovery of the condors that have been reintroduced into Northern Arizona and that forage in Southern Utah. Beginning in 2010, UWIN in cooperation with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources will provide, free of charge, non-lead ammunition to cooperating, licensed hunters who pursue big game in Southern Utah. In addition, UWIN will fund the printing and distribution of literature that will inform hunters of the benefits of using non-lead ammunition. This project will compliment a similar, successful program in Arizona. Biologists feel the successful expansion of Condors into their historic Utah range will hinge on the success of this program. UWIN is seeking support for the first two years of this project; $79,000 the first year and $104,000 the second year. Matching funds will be sought from other foundations, conservation organization, private corporations, government agencies and UWIN's general donor base. Funds will be used for the production and distribution of educational materials and the purchase and distribution of non-lead ammunition. Personnel costs associated with the project will be covered by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Please contact UWIN if you are traveling to Zions National Park and would like to see condors. |
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