Sespe Condor Sanctuary

The Sespe Condor Sanctuary spans 53,000 acres of mountainous terrain within Los Padres National Forest, featuring steep canyons and high mountain ridges at 3,182 feet elevation.

The United States Forest Service established this sanctuary in 1947 to protect the California condor, releasing the first captive-bred birds into the area in January 1992.

The name Sespe originates from the Chumash Native American language, referring to the river that flows through this conservation territory.

Visitors accessing the sanctuary must obtain permits and follow specific guidelines, as the area maintains restricted entry to safeguard the California condor population.

Scientists at the sanctuary developed training methods using mock power poles that emit mild electric shocks to prevent condors from landing on actual power lines.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 34.52860,-118.93300

Latest update: March 4, 2025 22:01