The palm-nut vulture or vulturine fish eagle, is a large bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It is the only member of the genus Gypohierax.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found along coasts, river systems, lakes, and wetlands wherever palms (especially oil palm and raffia) are available. It frequents mangroves, riverine forest edges, floodplains, and human-modified landscapes with planted palms. The species often perches conspicuously in tall palms and forages along shorelines and mudflats. Nests are usually placed high in palms or tall trees near water, built from sticks and lined with fresh vegetation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The palm-nut vulture is one of the very few raptors that feeds largely on fruit, especially oil palm nuts, despite its vulturine name. It is the sole member of the genus Gypohierax and is often seen soaring over wetlands and palm groves. Adults are strikingly black-and-white with red facial skin, while juveniles are mostly brown. It frequently nests in tall palms or trees near water.
Egg
Temperament
often seen in pairs; moderately territorial near nests
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with occasional strong, deep wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, sometimes small groups at rich food sources. Builds large stick nests high in palms or tall trees, usually near water. Usually lays a single egg; both adults share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet, but gives high-pitched whistles and yelping calls, especially near the nest or during display. Vocalizations are sharper and thinner than those of larger sea eagles.
