Greater Yellow-headed Vulture
NameGreater Yellow-headed Vulture
Common NameGreater Yellow-headed Vulture
Scientific NameCathartes melambrotus
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)172
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)1450
Plumage DetailsBody plumage is glossy black. The featherless head and neck display vibrant yellow, orange, and red skin, with a pale, whitish crown and nape. The bill is pale, often yellowish or pinkish.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce hisses and grunts, especially when threatened or competing for food.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Amazon Basin and tropical lowlands of South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesFeatherless, colorful head (yellow, orange, red, whitish crown), Glossy black body plumage, Pale bill, Large size
Description
A large, dark-plumaged vulture with a distinctive colorful, featherless head. It primarily feeds on carrion, soaring high over tropical forests.
