Ardea
Official journal of the Netherlands Ornithologists' Union

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Houston D.C. (1975) Ecological isolation of African scavenging birds. ARDEA 63 (1-2): 55-64
1. This paper collects some observations on African scavenging birds to augment some earlier studies, and tries to clarify the ecological differentiation of these species. 2. The White-backed Griffon and the larger Rnppell's Griffon are in direct competition in the Serengeti, although for most of their range they are probably separated geographically. It is suggested that the body-size and flying abilities of these two types of griffon vulture are adapted for the highland and flat savannah habitats that they occupy. 3. Lappet-faced and White-headed are probably both resident scavengers. The Lappet-faced is an aggressive feeder congregating with griffon vultures and taking tough parts of large carcasses that the griffon vultures do not eat. The White-headed, however, is a solitary feeder and a timid bird. It locates smaller carcasses that other vultures do not use. 4. Hooded and Egyptian Vultures are clearly separated by geographical ranges. 5. The Marabou Stork is the only other scavenging bird which may feed entirely on carrion, in some areas, and this species feeds chiefly by pirating food off griffon vultures.


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