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Baya - African Hooded Vulture
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  SPECIES FACTFILE:
Name: African Hooded Vulture (necrosyrtes monachus)
Length: 66-70cm (26-27in)
Wingspan: approx. 1800cm (70in)
Weight: approx. 2.1kg (4lb 8oz)
Diet: Carrion, refuse & insects (termites & locusts).

Range:

South of the Sahara in Uganda, Kenya, & Tanzania. It inhabits Plains, Savannas, Forested areas, and Coastal areas. It is even comfortable occupying Villages, where it interacts extensively with humans.

Baya (a Swahili word for 'ugly') was hatched in 2002 and imported from Belgium in 2003. Incidentally, the latin name necrosyrtes monachus means "monk-like (bird) that drags away the dead".

Hooded Vultures are members of the "Old World" vulture family all of which are considerably less aggressive than their "New World" (American) distant cousins. Even by Old World standards this particular species is notoriously timid and this, combined with a very weak beak and feet, makes Baya the most inoffensive of birds.

Unlike many species, the hooded vulture's head isn't completely bald. the head and neck are covered in a dense mat of feathers - leaving the face bald. The facial skin is normally a creamy-grey colour but when Baya gets excited it flushes bright pink.

A blushing bird with huge eyes and great dark eyelashes can't really be ugly, can it?

Unfortunately after several years of fighting Septic Arthritis, we had to give the decision to have Baya put down.Out of all the birds she will be greatly missed by all.RIP

This year we are going to have a vulture fund to help replace Baya,with any excess money after the purchase going to helping vultures in the wild.If you wish to donate please contact us.

Baya prepares to dine off of a fresh 'carcass' (109kb)
Thanks to Tina G from SGR FM (126kb)
 

R.I.P