lappetfaced

The lappet-faced vulture (Torgos tracheliotos) is a large Old World vulture in the family Accipitridae. It is one of the largest scavengers in Africa and the Middle East, notable for the bare skin on its face that forms distinctive, fleshy lappets.

Description may include a dark brown body, pale neck, and a strongly hooked bill. The head and neck are largely featherless, with pinkish bare skin and prominent facial folds. The wingspan can reach about 2.5 meters, and individuals typically measure around 95 to 100 centimeters in length, with a body weight that commonly ranges from 5 to 10 kilograms.

Distribution and habitat: The species ranges across sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It favors open, semi-arid landscapes such as savannas and rocky areas where large carcasses are accessible. It is often observed around major feeding sites, including plains, deserts, and mountainous regions.

Behavior and ecology: The lappet-faced vulture is a dominant scavenger that feeds primarily on large carcasses, including those of ungulates. It often feeds in family groups or with other scavengers. It roosts in trees or on cliffs and is capable of traversing long distances in search of food. Reproduction is slow, with breeding typically producing a single egg per year or season.

Conservation: The species is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with populations decreasing due to threats such as poisoning of carcasses, habitat degradation, and electrocution on power lines. Conservation measures focus on reducing poisoning, protecting critical habitats, and mitigating human-wildlife conflict.