LOS ANGELES (AP) – A “committee” of Cape vultures has officially made its debut at the Los Angeles Zoo, taking up residence in an exhibit designed to replicate their natural South African habitat. Beginning Thursday, zoo-goers will have the opportunity to observe these remarkable birds, often referred to as nature’s “clean-up crew,” as they roost, nest, and engage in social interactions.
The new exhibit, located in the Animals of Africa section, features nesting nooks integrated into a rock wall, offering ample space for the vultures to sunbathe and socialize. Denise Verret, the CEO and director of the Los Angeles Zoo, expressed her enthusiasm in a statement, emphasizing that the new habitat will foster a deeper connection to wildlife among Angelenos and enhance appreciation for the critical role vultures play in sustaining the environment.
Cape vultures stand approximately 3 feet (0.91 meters) tall and boast an impressive wingspan that can reach up to 8.5 feet (2.6 meters). These scavengers are vital in disposing of animal carcasses that could harbor diseases such as rabies, botulism, and anthrax. However, they face significant threats, making vultures one of the most endangered groups of birds globally, as noted by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Major factors contributing to their decline include hunting, poisoning, habitat fragmentation, loss of natural environment, and the impacts of climate change, according to zoo officials.
The Los Angeles Zoo has been home to Cape vultures since 1985. Previously, visitors could watch the birds as they soared overhead during bird shows, but the new exhibit offers a much closer view. This initiative is part of the zoo's ongoing efforts to enhance animal habitats and engage the public in conservation topics.
The establishment of this Cape vulture habitat received funding from the Fritz B. Burns Foundation and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, marking a significant step toward promoting awareness and conservation of this endangered species.
The introduction of Cape vultures at the Los Angeles Zoo marks an exciting development for both the zoo and its visitors, providing a unique opportunity to learn about these important scavengers in a carefully curated environment that mimics their native surroundings.
