Rare vultures comfortably perched at Al Ain zoo

Al Ain: Two rare vulture species have been added to the rich variety of wildlife at Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort.

The new additions will boost the 4,300-strong animal family at the zoo.

The birds have been put on display for the very first time since the zoo opened 40 years ago, said a spokesperson of the zoo.

The vultures have been housed at the birds of prey aviary. "The aviary, which also houses seven Steppe eagles and two Imperial eagles, will now be home to a white-headed vulture and two lappet-faced vultures," the spokesperson said.

Both vulture species, he said, are endemic to Africa and considered at risk of extinction.

The white-headed vulture is a medium-sized vulture. The bird's most distinguishing feature is a crest of white, as well as a pinkish beak.

The white-headed vulture is predominantly found in sub-Saharan Africa.

The lappet-faced vulture is one of the largest and most powerful among all African vultures, possessing very powerful beaks. Like many vultures, it has a bald head. However, the pink coloration is a distinctive feature. Africa apart, the lappet-faced vulture can also be found in some Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman and Yemen, the spokesperson said.

Located near the reptile house at the zoo, the birds of prey aviary is currently one of the most popular exhibits at the park. The park has plans to expand on the species represented in the bird section and is also looking to introduce demonstrations in the vulture aviary in the near future.

He said the park's animal collection is evolving to better represent the desert species of the world. Recently, a number of other desert-dwelling species were revealed to the public including the white-bellied bustard, Egyptian vulture, Grant's hedgehog and Savannah monitor lizard.