White-rumped Vulture
NameWhite-rumped Vulture
Common NameWhite-rumped Vulture
Scientific NameGyps bengalensis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)190
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)4500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark body plumage with a distinctive white rump, which is most visible in flight. The neck and head are largely featherless and pale, often appearing whitish or greyish, with a pale ruff of feathers at the base of the neck.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but may emit hisses, grunts, and growls, especially when squabbling over a carcass or at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, forest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeHistorically widespread across South and Southeast Asia, from Pakistan to Vietnam. Its population has drastically declined due to diclofenac poisoning, leading to fragmented and much smaller ranges.
Identifying FeaturesWhite rump (visible in flight), Dark body plumage, Pale, featherless head and neck, Heavy, dark bill, Broad wings for soaring
Description
The White-rumped Vulture is a medium-sized Old World vulture, typically seen soaring high in the sky or perched on trees. It is a scavenger, feeding primarily on carrion, and plays a crucial role in ecosystem clean-up.
