Our Mission
To conserve native wildlife and their habitats through science, education and collaboration.
Our Story
The organization was founded after the purchase of a wildlife sanctuary in 1977 in Big Sur, California. Incorporated in 1982, Ventana Wildlife Society led the way to the successful reintroduction of the iconic Bald Eagle and the California Condor to their native central coast habitats. Through adherence to rigorous science, collaboration to amplify our efforts, and educational outreach to underserved and historically marginalized communities, our organization strives to address pressing ecosystem challenges while inspiring the next generation of environmental and wildlife stewards.
Our Values
We believe in the importance of scientific research. We understand the value of contributing peer-reviewed publications to the scientific literature and extending our leadership in endangered and special-status species research, recovery, management and consultation.
We believe that access to meaningful outdoor experiences is a right that should be available to all, and that a love of the outdoors will help produce future leaders in wildlife preservation.
We believe that collaboration with other scientists, zoos, community members, organizations and governmental agencies will further our shared goals.
We believe in working closely with a diverse group of communities, industries, and native peoples.
We believe that access to meaningful outdoor experiences is a right that should be available to all, and that a love of the outdoors will help produce future leaders in wildlife preservation.
We believe that collaboration with other scientists, zoos, community members, organizations and governmental agencies will further our shared goals.
We believe in working closely with a diverse group of communities, industries, and native peoples.
Our Vision
We see a world in which endangered species thrive, and people are committed to their protection. Having succeeded in restoring the Bald Eagle to the central coast as a self-sustaining population, we envision a future where California Condors and other species will be well established and independent of our assistance. We also look forward to a time when financial, cultural and access-related barriers to meaningful outdoor education are eliminated, providing all with the opportunity to learn about, enjoy and protect wildlife.
Our Office
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Ventana Wildlife Society
9699 Blue Larkspur Ln, Ste 105 Monterey CA 93940 Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9:00AM - 4:00PM. Visitors are welcome during business hours - we have some great condor themed merchandise and welcoming staff.
The purchase of this property was made possible by Howard and Elva Elliott. Their unique approach to legacy giving has surely provided Ventana Wildlife Society a boost in infrastructure and long-term stability.
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Our Beginning
Between 1986 and 1994, VWS biologists successfully restored a breeding population of Bald Eagles to the central coast of California. The Big Sur Condor Sanctuary was once the site of a 30-foot tall Bald Eagle Release Tower.
