Lappet-faced Vulture
Image: Peter Erb (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 dark brown to black plumage on the body and wings, contrasting with white thighs and a white patch on the underside of the wings near the body. The head and neck are largely bare, typically pinkish-red, with distinctive fleshy folds or lappets on the sides of the head.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a variety of hisses, grunts, and guttural croaks, especially when competing for food or at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, semi-desert, arid shrubland, open woodland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound across much of sub-Saharan Africa, with a disjunct population in the Arabian Peninsula (Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman).
Identifying Featuresvery large size, bare pinkish-red head and neck, prominent fleshy lappets on head, dark body plumage, white thighs, powerful beak
Description
This massive Old World vulture is characterized by its dark plumage, powerful build, and distinctive bare, pinkish-red head with prominent fleshy lappets. It is a dominant scavenger at carcasses, capable of tearing through tough hides that smaller vultures cannot penetrate.
