Sarcogyps calvus
The Red-headed Vulture, Sarcogyps calvus, is a distinctive Old World Vulture characterized by its bare, deep red head and neck, set against a backdrop of glossy black plumage. This imposing raptor measures between 76–86 cm (30–34 in) in length with a wingspan of 1.9–2.6 m (6.2–8.5 ft) and can weigh 3.7–6.3 kg (8.2–13.9 lb). Key field marks for identification include its vibrant red head, a prominent white patch at the base of the neck, and large white patches on its flanks (thighs) visible in...
Found in open country, dry deciduous forests, arid plains, and foothills, often near human habitation and agricultural areas, typically at elevations up to 2,500 meters.
Exclusively a scavenger, feeding on carrion, primarily the carcasses of large mammals. They are adept at tearing tough hides and consuming bone fragments.
Red-headed Vultures are diurnal, spending much of the day soaring high on thermals in search of carrion, and roosting communally in tall trees overnight. Foraging primarily involves scavenging on large mammal carcasses, often arriving later than other vulture species but asserting dominance once ...
The Red-headed Vulture's historical range once spanned extensively across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Today, its distribution is severely fragmented and significantly contracted. Resident populations are primarily found in various regions across India, including parts of the Weste...
Critically Endangered
- The bare, vibrant red head and neck of the Red-headed Vulture are thought to play a hygienic role, as they can be easily cleaned after feeding on carrion. - Despite its impressive size and powerful beak, it often waits for smaller vultures to open a carcass before feeding, then dominates them o...