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Wassak (968) was one of the more dominant birds of his cohort and stood his ground against any challengers. Wassak meaning “condor” was selected as this bird's nickname by the local Rumsen Tribe. There was no doubt that Wassak (968) could hold his own, but he could also be a gentle bird, often choosing peace and food-sharing over aggressive fighting and bullying. He seemed to have a soft spot for the less dominant birds of the group and always allowed them to eat next to him.
On December 22, 2022, Pinnacles National Park staff trapped Wassak (968) after he was observed exhibiting lethargic behavior, a symptom of lead poisoning. VWS Condor Crew member, Evan McWreath, rushed him to LA Zoo where their veterinary team did all they could to bring him back to health. On January 5, 2023, Wassak (968) succumbed to lead sickness from foraging on a carcass that was shot with lead ammunition. He passed in the arms of one of his care givers. We would like to thank Pinnacles National Park, Evan McWreath and LA Zoo for doing all they could to try and save this bird during his final hours.
On December 22, 2022, Pinnacles National Park staff trapped Wassak (968) after he was observed exhibiting lethargic behavior, a symptom of lead poisoning. VWS Condor Crew member, Evan McWreath, rushed him to LA Zoo where their veterinary team did all they could to bring him back to health. On January 5, 2023, Wassak (968) succumbed to lead sickness from foraging on a carcass that was shot with lead ammunition. He passed in the arms of one of his care givers. We would like to thank Pinnacles National Park, Evan McWreath and LA Zoo for doing all they could to try and save this bird during his final hours.
Pronounced: WAHS-awk (final sound ends abruptly)