Lappet-faced Vulture
Image: pygmaeus (cc-by-nc)
NameLappet-faced Vulture
Common NameLappet-faced Vulture
Scientific NameTorgos tracheliotos
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)270
Length (cm)105
Weight (g)6900
Plumage DetailsAdults have mostly dark brown to black plumage, contrasting with white thighs and a white patch on the underside of the wings. The head and neck are largely bare, displaying a pinkish-red skin color, with prominent fleshy folds or 'lappets' on the sides of the head.
Vocalization / CallLappet-faced Vultures are generally silent, but may produce hisses, grunts, and growls, especially when squabbling over a carcass or at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, desert, shrubland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound across much of sub-Saharan Africa, with a fragmented distribution, and a small, isolated population in the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying Featuresvery large size, bare pinkish-red head and neck, prominent fleshy lappets on head, dark body plumage, white thighs, powerful beak
Description
The Lappet-faced Vulture is a massive Old World vulture known for its imposing size and distinctive bare head. It is a powerful scavenger, often dominating carcasses and tearing through tough hides that other vultures cannot penetrate. This species is typically found soaring high above open savannas and arid regions.
