

Being an international nonprofit conservation organization, we help link our conservation initiatives spanning over six continents to our two wildlife parks here in San Diego. Wonder can happen in a moment, and a moment can change a lifetime.Īs you experience these inspirational moments, you feel connected. During our 50th anniversary celebration, we look forward to sharing more of these moments that affect us all. Whether you have felt the wind against your face as an Andean condor soared above your head during a presentation, watched a California condor chick grow up on our live cams, or stood in awe as dozens of native turkey vultures soared above you against the rays of the setting sun, you may have experienced some of the many unique moments that the Safari Park shares with guests from around the world. Vultures help to break down organic matter by consuming carcasses-cleaning up the environment, giving access to other scavengers, and restoring balance to the ecosystem. To me, vultures represent the connectivity of all things, from the largest organisms to the smallest. They face obstacles including poaching, poisoning, micro-trash, habitat loss, and accessibility to food. There are 23 species of vultures, and many are threatened or endangered. It gives us a chance to speak about and take action to stop their drastic decline. This year’s International Vulture Awareness Day reminds us to not only continue our efforts to save wildlife, but to celebrate and bring awareness to a crucial group of birds: the vultures of our planet. Wildlife, ecosystems, and communities the world over benefit when these conservation initiatives go from dream to reality. Innovation, collaboration, and inspiration is what we do here. The Safari Park team has helped to spearhead conservation projects for many threatened and endangered species, ranging from the Arabian oryx and the Przewalski’s horse to the iconic California condor. At the Safari Park, conservation science and world-class wildlife care work cohesively for a brighter future for us all. It’s a time to reflect on the last 50 years of conservation, and an opportunity to look ahead to the future. This year, we celebrate the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s 50th anniversary.
