The Los Angeles Zoo is announcing the opening of its new Cape vulture exhibit that will bring the species back for public viewing in a habitat specifically designed to replicate their natural range. Guests can see the “committee” – the name for a group of vultures – of seven birds in the Animals of Africa section of the Zoo beginning Feb. 6.
“This was an unused exhibit that has been fully renovated to meet the needs of this species. It gives guests an up-close look at this African vulture and how they live and behave,” said Denise Verret, Los Angeles Zoo CEO and Zoo Director. “The new space will undoubtedly help Angelenos continue to foster a deeper connection to wildlife and an appreciation for a species that plays a vital role in the environment.”
The L.A. Zoo has cared for Cape vultures since 1985. Guests have been able to see Cape vultures soaring over the Zoo in the Angela Collier World of Birds Show. The new exhibit space allows a closer look at their roosting, nesting, and social interactions among the members of the committee.
“This habitat incorporates elements that are specifically designed for the species like colony nesting nooks in the rock wall, and ample room for sunbathing,” said Rose Legato, Curator of Birds, L.A. Zoo. “Not only does it put the birds’ natural behaviors on full display, the design showcases the high priority that the Zoo places on animal care and wellbeing. I’m excited for our guests to experience the space and observe this special vulture.”
The new Cape vulture habitat was made possible by a $3 million gift from the Fritz B. Burns Foundation and additional support from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Plaques recognizing the generous donations adorn the facade of the viewing pavilion.
Cape vultures are named for their South African range which includes the Cape region. Like other vulture species, they are carrion feeders. By swooping in to remove dead animal remains, they act as nature’s “clean-up crew,” disposing of large carcasses that could carry diseases like rabies, botulism, or anthrax. They can digest meat in any stage of decay, and strong immune systems allow them to safely eat dangerous pathogens that would sicken or kill other animals.
The Cape vulture is a large bird with a wingspan of up to eight and a half feet. It stands at about three feet tall and weighs 15 to 24 pounds. This scavenger has a sharp, hooked beak designed to tear flesh and large feet to hold down carcasses while eating. Its primarily white feathers have taupe tips at the wing and tail, and its fleshy head is a complementary gray. As an Old World vulture, the Cape is more closely related to eagles and hawks than to New World vultures like turkey vultures and California condors.
The species is categorized as “Vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and, like many vultures, they continue to be threatened by human activities including hunting, poisoning, habitat fragmentation and loss, and climate change. The Los Angeles Zoo has a long, successful history working with this species and has produced more Cape vulture offspring than any other AZA accredited facility. The Zoo is a proud partner in the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) program for African Vultures. The program aims to address the threat of poisoning, monitor wild populations, and increase knowledge and awareness of African vultures across broader communities.
Guests can see the Cape vultures in their new home in the Animals of Africa section of the L.A. Zoo daily, beginning Feb. 6.
About the Los Angeles Zoo
The Los Angeles Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is dedicated to providing exemplary animal care and wellbeing. As a trusted leader in local and global conservation efforts, the Los Angeles Zoo is saving wildlife and connecting Angelenos to the natural world by delivering diverse learning opportunities and creating unforgettable experiences. The lush 133-acre campus and its passionate and dedicated team welcomes all to be inspired by the Zoo’s vision to create a just and sustainable world where people and wildlife thrive, together. The Zoo is located on Zoo Drive in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $22 for adults and $17 for children ages 2 to 12. For information, call (323) 644-4200 or visit the L.A. Zoo website at www.lazoo.org.
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