CAPE VULTURE
Gyps coprotheres
DESCRIPTION
The Cape Vulture is a large bird of prey known for its impressive wingspan and scavenging habits. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by consuming carrion, thus helping to prevent the spread of disease.
FUN FACTS
- Cape Vultures can soar at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet | They have a wingspan of about 2.6 meters | They are known to be monogamous and mate for life
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild
Average Weight6.5-11 kg
Average Length1.0-1.1 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuregroup — they often roost and feed in large flocks.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (August-October)
- Habitat
- They inhabit open grasslands, savannas, and mountainous regions where they can easily spot food from the air. Nesting typically occurs on cliffs or in large trees.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland, Mountain
- Native Range
- Southern Africa, primarily found in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe
- Diet
- Cape Vultures primarily feed on the carcasses of large mammals. They are highly adapted for locating food from great heights.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- large mammal carcasses
- Social Structure
- group — they often roost and feed in large flocks.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 10-50
- Territorial
- 0
6.5-11 kg
Weight
1.0-1.1 m
Length
- Coloration
- mostly white with a brownish head and neck, and dark flight feathers.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 5-6 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (August-October)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently declining due to various threats.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 10,000-15,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss, poisoning, and electrocution from power lines. These factors have significantly impacted their numbers.
- Conservation Program
- Various conservation programs are in place to protect their habitats and reduce poisoning incidents.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon