By Joe Burnett and Kelly Sorenson, Ventana Wildlife Society

Join us for a very special evening with Joe Burnett and Kelly Sorenson from the Ventana Wildlife Society who will give a brief update on condor recovery and status in the wild, as well as a special presentation on a wild-raised chick, named “Ohlone” in honor of the Indigenous Peoples of California. “Ohlone” was raised in a wild nest in central California and has a very special story. Through the generosity of our members, Ohlone Audubon has adopted this wild fledged chick in memory of Phil Gordon.

Joe Burnett, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, CA Condor Recovery Program Manager, first began working with Ventana Wildlife Society in May 1993 as a Field Assistant for VWS’ Bald Eagle Restoration Program in Big Sur, CA. In 1996, Joe became Field Supervisor for VWS’ Condor Restoration Program and coordinated the first seven releases of condors in central California, six in Big Sur and one at Pinnacles National Monument. Joe left VWS in 2003 to start up Oregon Zoo’s Captive Breeding Program for condors. His experiences with captive condors vastly broadened his knowledge base of the species. In 2005, Joe returned to VWS to coordinate the release effort once again. Joe received a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife and Fisheries, focusing on birds, from West Virginia University in 1994. He began his field studies of birds as an undergraduate in 1992 and now has over 25 years experience working with a variety of bird species. He is currently a two-term Monterey County Fish and Game Commissioner.

Kelly J. Sorenson, Executive Director, is a wildlife conservationist and “jack of all trades,” blending science, storytelling, and leadership to protect California’s endangered birds. For more than three decades, he has led major recovery efforts for the California Condor and Bald Eagle, helping reestablish wild populations across Central California. Sorenson has co-authored scientific studies on wildlife recovery and lead poisoning, produced award-winning documentaries such as Giants of Big Sur and Condor Canyon, and secured the funding and partnerships that power long-term conservation. He also serves as a managing director for the California Central Coast Joint Venture. With a background in wildlife management and public administration, Sorenson continues to bridge research, film, and community engagement to advance conservation throughout the West.