Cinerous vulture in exhibit

Cinereous Vulture

Scientific Name
Aegypius monachus
Class
Aves
Order
Falconiformes
Range
From northern Africa and Spain to the west through China and Thailand to the east
Habitat
Dry plains, grasslands, and mountainous forests
Estimated Wild Population
31000
Cinerous vulture in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Near Threatened Endangered Status Graph - Near Threatened

More Information

Cinereous vultures can stand up to three feet tall and have a wingspan measuring up to 10 feet across. They have dark brown feathers with a dull blue head, neck, and bill. As scavengers, cinereous vultures feed on carrion, ranging from large mammals to fish and reptiles. They build their nests in trees and on cliffs high above the ground, using sticks and twigs as building materials.

Did You Know?

Scavengers play an important role in their ecosystems: by feeding on dead animals, they recycle nutrients and speed the process of decomposition.

Their massive beak is well suited for feeding on tough material, such as sinew, dry skin, and muscle.

The short feathers on their head and neck prevent gore from accumulating during feeding.

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Species Survival Plan®

We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.

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