California condor walks to the left.
September 4, 2021

International Vulture Awareness Day

Each year, we take some time to appreciate these unsung ecological heroes, who help to remove pathogens from the environment by feeding on carrion. While best known for our conservation work with the California condor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has cared for and protected many of the world’s vulture species.  

Adult Egyptian vulture perched on branch.

From Our Vulture Experts

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance conservation scientists and wildlife care specialists share what goes into protecting vultures each and every day.

 

Why I Love Vultures

Cape Vulture Chick—A Success Story

Nosy Neighbors with a Purpose

Oh, Baby! Vulture Chicks at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

 

Vulture looks at the camera

V is for Vulture

Vultures play a vital role in the environment: they are part of the all-important cleanup crew. 

Head of a vulture looking at the camera.

Vultures Face Many Threats—but You Can Help Them Survive

Hardy as they are, vultures are imperiled by many human factors, including poisoning, wind turbines, and their use in traditional medicine. Learn how you can support vulture survival.

Condor chick being hand fed.

Saving Vultures Worldwide Through Our Conservation Hubs

Vultures' habitat spans many regions of the world. Numerous species fall under several of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s geographically oriented conservation hubs: Southwest, Amazonia, African Forest, Savanna, and Asian Rainforest. 

California Condor Flying

Be a Wildlife Ally

Take Action for Vultures Worldwide

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is significantly involved in the California Condor Recovery Program. You too can help vultures by placing trash in the right bin, refraining from the use of dangerous chemicals, disposing of harmful substances responsibly, and recycling. If you are a hunter, please use non-lead bullets. These are all ways that you can help wildlife, including those misunderstood vultures. 

By supporting San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, you are our ally in saving and protecting wildlife worldwide.

Join the Alliance 

Take Action for Wildlife

FOR KIDS

California condor stands and looks to the left.

All About California Condors

Why do condors have bald heads? And why are they called "thunderbirds"? Discover amazing California condor facts on the San Diego Zoo Kids site! 

Vulture coloring page.

California Condor Coloring Page

Decorate a condor with its natural pattern or, get creative with your own colors.

Kings vulture side profile.

Kids Corner Episode 4: Misunderstood Meat Eaters

Join Dr. Zoolittle to explore why carnivores like vultures are important to the ecosystem. 

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