Lappet-faced Vulture
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, contrasting with white thighs and a white patch on the lower breast/belly. The head and neck are largely bare, displaying pinkish-red skin with prominent fleshy folds or 'lappets' on the sides of the face. The powerful beak is dark.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a range of hisses, grunts, and growls, especially when competing at a carcass or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, arid plains, desert, open woodland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound across much of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, East Africa, and Southern Africa, with a smaller population in parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Bare pinkish-red head with prominent fleshy lappets, Dark body plumage with white thighs, Powerful, heavy beak
Description
The Lappet-faced Vulture is a very large Old World vulture characterized by its bare, pinkish-red head with distinctive fleshy folds (lappets) on the sides. It is a dominant scavenger at carcasses, often displacing smaller vultures due to its size and powerful beak.
