Palm-nut Vulture
NamePalm-nut Vulture
Common NamePalm-nut Vulture
Scientific NameGypohierax angolensis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)142.5
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a striking white body, head, and tail, contrasting sharply with black primary and secondary flight feathers. The face is bare and bright orange-red, extending around the eyes. Juveniles are brown with a greyish face and duller facial skin.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a series of hoarse croaks, caws, and guttural grunts, especially around nests or food sources.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatscoastal forest, mangrove, riverine forest, oil palm plantations
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in coastal and riverine areas where oil palms are abundant, from Senegal and Gambia east to Kenya and south to Angola and northern South Africa.
Identifying Featureswhite body plumage, black flight feathers, bare orange-red facial skin, heavy, hooked bill, unique diet of palm nuts
Description
This medium-sized raptor is unique among vultures for its largely vegetarian diet, primarily feeding on the fruit of oil palms. It has a distinctive appearance with white plumage, black flight feathers, and bare orange-red facial skin. Often found near water and oil palm groves.
