Cinereous Vulture (a.k.a Eurasian
Black Vulture, Monk Vulture)
Aegyptius monachus
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Range and habitat:
The Cinereous vulture breeds across southern
Europe and Asia from Spain to Korea, but is endangered throughout its
European range. It is not found in the parts of its range where hard winters
cause limited movement. These vultures breed in high mountains and large
forests, nesting in trees or occasionally on cliff ledges.
Natural diet:
In the wild, the Cinereous vulture feeds on carrion
(dead and decaying flesh).
Size / weight range:
This bird grows to be 3 to 3 1/2 feet tall,
with a wingspan of 8-10 feet. I can weigh anywhere from 15 1/2 to 31 pounds.
Interesting facts:
This Old World vulture is one of the largest
birds of prey. Among the vultures in their range, they are the best equipped
to tear open tough carcass skins, and they are dominant over other vultures
at carcasses. Listed as near-threatened in the wild, this species is protected
in zoo settings by a Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is administered
by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to ensure a healthy and genetically
diverse zoo population. The Toledo Zoo is proud to participate in the
Cinereous vulture SSP.
Location at The Toledo Zoo:
Outside of the Avian Breeding Center (between Primate Forest and Kingdom of the Apes)
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