Vulture King - Sarcoramphus papa

Sarcoramphus papa, the King Vulture from Central and South America. This is a large bird of prey, usually about 2.5 feet tall with a wingspan of over 6 feet. It ranges from Southern Mexico to Northern Argentina, anywhere where lowland tropical forests abound. It can be recognized by its bare head, bright red and orange beak coloration and its feeding behaviour.

Like most vultures, it is a carrion-eater and it feeds on dead animals and stranded fish. However, unlike other vultures, it hunts in the lowland rainforests with short glides and strong wingbeats (while other vultures soar and glide high above searching for food). Just like its rainforest home, the King Vulture is quickly becoming endangered.