Identification
Size: Large bird, 75-85 cm in length.
Plumage: Generally black with a white neck ruff. The beak is silver. Juveniles are dark brown with easily visible white streaking on the underside (see illustration).
Biology and Ecology
Habitat: Bengal vultures are found in various habitats, including mountainous regions and plains, rarely in high mountainous areas. They typically perch on large trees in relatively open areas.
Diet: Scavengers, feeding on carrion. In India, they have been observed feeding on human and livestock carcasses. They often gather in small flocks. They nest in colonies, though not large ones, in tall trees, often near villages.
Distribution
Vietnam: South Central Coast (provinces of the Central Highlands) and South Vietnam.
Worldwide: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand, China, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
Value
A rare species in Vietnam. Vultures, including the Bengal vulture, play a crucial role in natural ecosystems.
Status
Threatened: Threatened within the region and globally. Previously observed in several locations in the Central Highlands, South Central Coast, and South Vietnam; observed in Đắk Lắk (38, 70) in 1997 and 1998. While widespread within its global range, the Bengal vulture experienced population decline in most Asian countries in the early 20th century.
Classification
CR A1a,c,d C2aD.
Conservation Measures
International Regulations: Listed in Appendix II of the CITES and CMS international conventions. The Asian Vulture Specialist Group has been established, and action plans are needed to be implemented including coordination with countries for research, investigation on ecology, mortality rates and other needs of conservation. Some protected areas globally can contribute to the prevention of their extinction. Restoring and protecting forests in the Central Highlands bordering Cambodia will be important for the conservation of large raptor species like vultures in Vietnam.