Description

Vultures are large scavenging birds of prey that play a vital role in ecosystems by feeding on dead animals and preventing the spread of disease. There are 23 species of vultures, including Old World vultures like the Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) found in Europe and Asia, and New World vultures such as the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) from South America. Both groups independently evolved similar traits, like their bald heads, which help them stay clean while feeding on carrion. Vultures are known for their strong soaring abilities, with species like the Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) using thermal air currents to spot carrion from great heights. Social by nature, they often gather in groups called "kettles" when in flight or "wakes" when feeding. Despite their critical ecological role, vultures face serious threats from habitat loss, poisoning, and food scarcity, with species like the critically endangered Indian vulture (Gyps indicus) seeing drastic population declines.