Vultures' Value

Marie Frei August 29, 2014

About the Author

Marie is AWF's former Membership Services Associate. With her background in the travel industry and experience living in Southern Africa, she is most interested in how the right balance of conservation and tourism can benefit both people and wildlife. She is an avid photographer and blogger,… More

Vultures in a tree in South Africa

If there are vultures circling above, there is a good chance you’ll find a fresh animal kill nearby.

Vultures not only provide an indicator for potential predator viewing, but also play an essential part in the ecosystem, keeping the bush free of rotting carcasses.

I recently learned several species of African vultures are threatened due to poaching and habitat loss and degradation. Now that I’m aware of how important their role is, it has made me appreciate the sightings even more.