^Click on photo for larger image^ KING VULTURE Sarcoramphus papa

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The King Vulture, known as "king jan kro" in Belize, is the largest and most colorful of the four species of vulture in Belize. The extremely thick and strong bill is well adapted for tearing, and the long, thick claws for holding the meat.

The King Vulture inhabit the forested lowlands of Belize. They will sometimes fly over savannas searching for dead meat. Their extremely keen eyesight and sense of smell allow them to locate potential food sources easily. They will often locate food by the presence of the other vulture species. Once the King Vulture lands, the other birds make way for it. Little is known of the King Vulture nesting habits. usually one chick is hatched, and it remains black for about three years before turning a pure white. Habitat destruction is the main cause of the decline of this species. Belize fortunately still protects healthy populations of this magnificent bird.

KEY FACTS SIZE 32 inches RANGE: S. Mexico to S. Argentina HABITAT: Tropical lowlands up to 4000' FOOD: Carrion