Rüppell's vulture, also called Rüppell's griffon vulture, a species of vulture named after Eduard Rüppell, is a large, resident bird of prey, mainly native to the Sahel region and East Africa. It is considered to be the highest-flying bird, with confirmed evidence of a flight at an altitude of 11,300 m (37,000 ft), where the average temperature is about −56 °C (−69 °F). The former population of 22,000 individuals has been decreasing due to loss of habitat, incidental poisoning, and other factors. It is therefore listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Region
Sahel and East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs across the Sahel from West to Northeast Africa and throughout East Africa, especially in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania. Prefers open savannas, semi-arid grasslands, and montane plateaus with nearby cliffs for roosting and nesting. Often found along rift escarpments and in protected areas with large ungulate populations. Will also forage near abattoirs and livestock areas where carrion is available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 4500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Rüppell's vulture is the highest-flying bird on record, confirmed at 11,300 m (37,000 ft) during an aircraft strike. It is highly social, often forming large flocks at carcasses and nesting in colonies on sheer cliffs. Populations have declined sharply due to poisoning, habitat loss, and shortages of wild carrion.
Rüppell's vulture in Nairobi National Park
Rüppell's vulture in Ethiopia
At a blue wildebeest carcass in the Mara River at the Masai Mara National Reserve
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Typically forms large communal roosts and feeds in mixed-species vulture aggregations with a clear dominance hierarchy. Nests colonially on steep cliffs, with pairs generally monogamous and raising a single chick per breeding attempt. Uses thermal updrafts to travel long distances in search of carcasses.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally silent in flight, lacking complex vocalizations. At carcasses and nest sites it emits harsh grunts, croaks, and rasping hisses.
