LAPPET FACED VULTURE
DESCRIPTION
The Lappet Faced Vulture is a large scavenging bird known for its distinctive lappet-like skin flaps on its head. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by consuming carrion and helping to prevent the spread of disease.
FUN FACTS
- Lappet Faced Vultures can soar at altitudes of up to 15,000 feet | They have a unique feeding behavior where they often wait for other scavengers to open up carcasses before they feed | Their bald heads help keep them clean while feeding on carrion
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild
Average Weight6-10 kg
Average Length1.1-1.3 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social StructureThey are generally social and can be found in groups, especially when feeding.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonWinter (June-August)
- Habitat
- Lappet Faced Vultures inhabit open and semi-arid regions, often found in savannas and grasslands. They prefer areas with sparse vegetation where they can easily spot food from the air.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland
- Native Range
- They are native to parts of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
- Continent
- Africa, Asia
- Countries
- South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan
- Diet
- This vulture primarily feeds on carrion, including the remains of large mammals. It has a strong beak that allows it to tear through tough hides to access the meat.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- large mammal carcasses
- Social Structure
- They are generally social and can be found in groups, especially when feeding.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
6-10 kg
Weight
1.1-1.3 m
Length
- Coloration
- They have a mostly brown body with a distinctive bald head and neck, which is pinkish to gray in color.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Winter (June-August)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently declining due to habitat loss and poisoning.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Less than 10,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, poisoning from carcasses laced with toxins, and hunting. 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