White headed vulture

Introduction: White-headed vultures (Aegypius occipitalis) inhabit mopane and mixed woodland type habitats and are often associated with baobab trees. They can be observed singly or in pairs, whilst drinking and bathing in the late morning and standing in water on hot days. Roosting is at night in trees, usually near the nest site.

Distribution: North and north-eastern Namibian ranges including Etosha National Park and the Caprivi Strip.

Diet: Takes carrion from all sizes of carcass. Also kills small mammals such as Cape porcupine, pangolin, bat-eared fox, caracal, African wild cat, impala, scrub hare and vervet monkey. Avian prey the size of ducks to bustards is also taken. as are puff adders, monitor lizards, giant bullfrog and the African rock python.

Description: Medium-sized vulture with strong feet and long toes. Long and broad wings and short neck compared to the body size.

Breeding: Dry sticks and twigs are arranged in a large platform. Females only lay 1 egg often in July incubated for a period of 56 days by both adults in shifts.

Size: 85c.

Weight: 4.5kg.