A majestic bird of prey native to India, Pakistan, and Nepal. This species, once very common in its range, is recognized by its white rump and underparts, contrasting sharply with its dark body and wings. These birds are part of the Old World vulture family, meaning they rely on their keen sight, rather than smell, to locate food.
A distinct characteristic of the Indian vulture is its bald head, which is light in color, and a short, hooked beak that is incredibly strong and effective for tearing meat. The lack of feathers on the head is actually a hygienic feature, as it prevents remnants of decaying meat from sticking to them during feeding. Their eyes are dark and piercing, adding to their intense appearance.
Indian vultures are social creatures, often found in large flocks. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by consuming dead animals. This not only helps in cleaning the environment but also prevents the spread of diseases that can occur from rotting carcasses. Their diet mainly consists of carrion, and they are rarely known to hunt live prey. These vultures have a hierarchical system at feeding sites, where older and more dominant birds eat first.
In terms of behavior, Indian vultures are quite interesting. They can often be seen soaring high in the sky, riding thermals – currents of warm air – which allows them to conserve energy while covering large areas in search of food. They are also known for their silent nature; they do not make much noise except for occasional grunts or hisses during feeding or when threatened.
Distribution
Afghanistan
India
Nepal
PakistanAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Flock
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
