The California Condor was bred back from the brink of extinction. In 1988 only 22 were left in the world, all of those in captivity. Still critically endangered, there are now 321 known living condors, 172 of which are wild. Born just days ago, these tiny chicks epitomize "ugly-cute."
(Note that video ends at 1:07 but continues to run)
The San Diego Zoo's captive breeding program deserves part of the credit for the rebound of this species, although it still has a long way to go. Learn more about California Condor conservation at the SD Zoo's condor page.
