Bird · GBIF taxon 5788496
Lappet-faced Vulture
Torgos tracheliotosAlso known as Nubian Vulture, African King Vulture
Lappet-faced vultures dominate African carcass feeding frenzies, using their massive hooked beaks to tear open tough hides that smaller scavengers cannot penetrate. Unfeathered pinkish heads with prominent skin folds help keep these giant raptors clean while feeding, while broad wings allow effortless soaring across arid savannas. Breeding pairs build immense stick nests atop acacia trees, defending vast territories throughout the year.
ScavengerRaptor
Licensed reference(c) Yathin sk, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Ungulate Carrion
- Flamingo Chicks
- Small Reptiles
Predators
- Martial Eagle
- Lions
ThreatsPoisoned baits targeting carnivores, habitat loss, power line collisions
HabitatsDry savanna, semi-arid desert, open woodland
Life span20–30 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyAccipitridae
- SpeciesTorgos tracheliotos
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of inflicting severe bites with its massive beak if cornered; maintain a safe distance.
- What to notice
- Look for an enormous dark raptor with a bare pink head, hanging skin lappets, and a pale yellow bill.
- Support conservation
- Keep a wide distance from nesting trees and feeding sites to prevent flushing adult birds.
Responsible observation
- Safari Viewing: Remain inside your vehicle, as approaching on foot flushes feeding or roosting birds.
- Nest Safety: Avoid approaching low tree canopies during the dry season when pairs actively incubate eggs.
Carcass Companion Yathin sk / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Carcass Companion Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative Giles Laurent / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
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