A new California Condor chick had its first checkup Monday.
For the first time, veterinarians were able to handle the chick born six weeks ago.
Up until now, San Diego Zoo Safari Park staffers were just observing the new condor using the park’s Condor Cam.
During the exam, the chick was given a routine West Nile Virus vaccination and a small microchip for identification. It weighs eight pounds, about the size of a bowling ball.
Veterinarians also took a small blood sample that will help identify whether the chick is a male or female.
The results should be available in a few days according to a park news release.
Vets wanted to keep the exam quick so the chick would not get accustomed to the presence of humans.
Saticoy, as the chick has been named, settled quickly back into the nest.
Local
The new condor hatched on Saturday, March 10 to parents Sisquoc and Shatash.
The largest bird in America, the condor's wing span reaches approximately 9.5 feet. In 1982, when only 22 condors existed, they were classified as critically endangered.
The program at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has helped hatch 165 chicks and release 80 birds into the wild.
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