You don’t need to go on safari to see giants. The largest birds in North America soar through skies, stalk wetlands and impress with sheer size.

Some have massive wingspans, others stand tall enough to stare a person in the eye. From apex predators to threatened giants, these big birds are among nature’s most dramatic flyers.

1. California Condor

The California condor is North America’s largest flying bird, with a wingspan stretching up to 10 ft (3 m). These New World vultures are critically endangered, with habitat loss and lead poisoning among the biggest threats.

Reintroduced to the wild in parts of California, Arizona, Utah, and Baja California (Mexico), they can soar great distances in a single day. Despite their massive size, they weigh just around 20 lb (9 kg).

2. Trumpeter S

See Full Page