White-headed Vulture
The White-headed Vulture is a distinctive medium-sized vulture found in sub-Saharan Africa. Its most striking feature is its white head and large, pink beak, contrasting with dark brown and black plumage. Unlike most vultures, the White-headed Vulture is less bald, with a covering of small feathers on its head and neck. Its wingspan is broad, making it an excellent glider over the savannas and woodlands where it lives.
While primarily a scavenger, the White-headed Vulture is also known to hunt small prey such as fish, lizards, and birds. It flies at lower altitudes compared to other vultures, often being one of the first to arrive at a carcass.
The species has suffered catastrophic population declines, losing up to 96% of its numbers over recent decades. These declines are driven by habitat loss and poisoning, both accidental and targeted. The widespread use of toxic pesticides like Carbofuran, often used to kill predators, has severely impacted vulture populations. This species is now classified as Critically Endangered.
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