Cape Griffon
NameCape Griffon
Common NameCape Griffon
Scientific NameGyps coprotheres
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)235
Length (cm)105
Weight (g)9200
Plumage DetailsAdults have pale creamy-buff to off-white body plumage, contrasting with dark brown to black flight feathers and tail. The head and neck are covered in sparse, pale down, and a prominent white ruff encircles the base of the neck.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can emit hisses, grunts, and growls, particularly when interacting at a carcass or nest site.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain, desert
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily found in South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana, and Namibia.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Pale creamy-buff body, Dark flight feathers, Bare pale head and neck, White neck ruff, Heavy bill
Description
A large, pale-bodied Old World Vulture, the Cape Griffon is an impressive scavenger known for its powerful soaring flight. It possesses a bare head and neck, an adaptation for its carrion-feeding diet.
