‘Damien’ Size: Length.101cm.(40ins). Wingspan.241cm.(96ins). Status: 11,000 pairs. Declined. Habitat: African savannah/open grassy plains. Reproduction: 1 egg. November-December. 55 day incubation. Diet: Carrion.

Huge amounts of Ruppell’s (along with other vultures)have been killed off by Strychnine poisoning due to accusations they kill livestock.
Classically of vultures they have long necks for probing deep inside carcasses & sharp powerful beaks for ripping flesh. However they are often seen climbing completely inside larger dead animals.
Ruppell’s often eat so much they cannot take off. They then have to regurgitate (throw-up) some of their dinner to get airbourne!