White-headed vulture
Trigonoceps occipitalis
About
With its striking white head, jet-black wings and sharp, hooked beak, the white-headed vulture is one of Africa’s most distinctive birds of prey. Unlike many vultures, it is often found alone or in pairs, soaring over open savannahs in search of food. While it feeds mainly on carrion, it’s also been observed hunting small mammals, birds and reptiles - a rare skill among vultures.
White-headed vultures build their nests high in the trees, choosing quiet, undisturbed landscapes where they can safely raise their young. But habitat destruction, poisoning and human-wildlife conflict have caused their numbers to plummet. Protecting these birds isn’t just about saving a species - it’s about keeping ecosystems healthy.
White-headed vulture facts
Threats
Once widespread across Africa, the white-headed vulture is now disappearing at an alarming rate. Their decline is driven by a mix of habitat destruction, poisoning and human-wildlife conflict.
Human intervention
As trees are cleared for agriculture, safe nesting sites are vanishing.
Hunting
Vultures are sometimes deliberately poisoned or persecuted, despite their vital role in keeping ecosystems clean and disease free.
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