JOHN RAVINDRAN: Egyptian Vulture

Egyptian vulture

(Neophron percnopterus)

Egyptian vultures are native residents in India and are found widely distributed particularly in the north-western regions. It has also been reported to be present in the southern peninsular India. In the state of Tamilnadu, this bird has been reported to have been spotted in various districts over a period of time. Sightings recorded are from Chennai (1984, 1996 & 2016), Kanchipuram (1974, 1980, 1983, 1986, & 1992), Vellore (1985), Villupuram(1997), Salem(2018), Cuddalore(1982), Karur(1978), Coimbatore(2016), Theni(1994), Virudhunagar(1981), Tuticorin(2014, 2015, & 2017) and Tirunelveli(2013, 2016 & 2017). In Chennai, this species has been sighted at Adayar, Pallikaranai marshland and Vandalur area).

Two sub-species of this Egyptian vultures are present in India, namely, Neophron p. percnopterus and Neophron p. ginginianus which are morphologically distinguishable, The beak of Neophron p. percnopterus is yellowish which terminates in a black base and suited for picking up food items rather than tearing flesh. In the case of the other, the yellowish beak ends with a pinkish tip. These features help us to easily distinguish to the sub-species level. The former is found mainly in semi-arid zones, deserts and agricultural areas whereas the latter generally around rubbish dumps and slaughter houses near towns, villages and outskirts of cities.

Egyptian Vultures like other vulture species are scavengers and feed on dead and decaying flesh of animals or human beings (Carrions). They are said to be opportunist feeders and prey on small mammals, birds or lizards and sometimes feed on the eggs of other birds. These vultures are the world’s only tool using vultures and are reported to use pebbles to break eggs for feeding and also uses twigs to roll up wisps of wool to take them to line its nest. These have been known to live for about 21 years in the wild.