Torgos tracheliotos
The Lappet-faced Vulture, a formidable and iconic raptor, stands as one of the largest and most powerful Old World vultures, easily identifiable by its massive size (wingspan often exceeding 2.8 meters or 9 feet), dark plumage, and striking bare, pinkish-red head and neck adorned with distinctive fleshy folds or 'lappets' on either side. Its robust, dark brown to black body contrasts with white thighs and a prominent black, hooked beak designed for tearing tough hides, while juveniles exhibit...
Primarily inhabits arid savannas, semi-deserts, open woodlands, and thorny scrublands, preferring relatively undisturbed areas with scattered trees for nesting and roosting. Typically found at elevations from sea level up to 3,000 meters.
Feeds almost exclusively on carrion, primarily large mammal carcasses, but will also opportunistically hunt small live prey such as birds, reptiles, and insects. Forages by soaring high to spot carcasses, using excellent eyesight.
Lappet-faced Vultures are largely solitary or observed in pairs, often exhibiting an aloof and dominant demeanor even at large carcasses, where their immense size and powerful bill allow them to rip open tough hides for other vultures. They are diurnal, spending mornings soaring to locate food an...
The Lappet-faced Vulture has a vast but highly fragmented distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal and Mauritania in the west, eastward through the Sahel region, and south through East Africa into Southern Africa. Isolated populations also exist in parts of the Arabian Penin...
Critically Endangered
- The Lappet-faced Vulture is often called the 'King of Vultures' in Africa due to its aggressive dominance over other vulture species at a carcass. - Its distinctive fleshy lappets are thought to play a role in thermoregulation and species recognition. - Unlike most vultures that scavenge soft t...