Birdorable Palm-nut Vulture

Bonanza Bird #8: Palm-nut Vulture

July 17th, 2012 in Birdorable Bonanza 2012, Vultures – 8 comments

Today's Bonanza bird is the Palm-nut Vulture, also known as the Vulturine Fish Eagle.

Palm-nut Vulture

Vultures are sometimes known as nature's garbage collectors, because they mostly feed on carrion - dead animals. The Palm-nut Vulture is the exception to the rule, feeding mainly on the fruits of Raphia and Elaeis palm trees. Their method of feeding can be quite unusual, too. They hang upside-down, holding onto the fruit with their feet and using their beaks to pull off pieces to eat.

Buitre palmero - Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis)
Buitre palmero - Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis) by ferran pestaña

The Palm-nut Vulture is rather common within its range. This species is fortunately not threatened, unlike many other vulture species.

Birdorable Palm-nut Vulture t-shirts and gifts

Tomorrow's bird is an Old World finch with a bovine name. Can you guess what it will be?

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