Vultures in Tanzania

Who's involved:
North Carolina Zoo, Wildlife Conservation Society, Tanzanian National Parks (TANAPA)

In 2012, vulture experts identified Southern Tanzania as an area likely to be important for vultures, but where little was currently known. To address this gap, North Carolina Zoo in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society conducted the first vulture roadside surveys in southern Tanzania in 2013. Data from Ruaha and Katavi National Park confirmed the importance of this landscape for African vultures, with high vulture abundance and currently low threats. Since 2013, NC Zoo and WCS have established and implemented a collaborative vulture monitoring program in Ruaha and Katavi, working closely with Tanzanian National Parks (TANAPA) staff. We have conducted two trainings with TANAPA rangers on vulture conservation and have established a protocol for addressing poisoning events.

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​In 2015, we began using satellite telemetry to assess movements of White-backed and White-headed vultures and have tagged 13 vultures to date. Telemetry data provides vital information on mortality rates and causes, population connectivity, and habitat use, which has continued to shape our program efforts. In addition, we have begun lead testing in vultures to assess prevalence of exposure in this landscape. Using population monitoring and telemetry, we are able to assess threats to vulture conservation in the region. Ranger capacity building and vulture awareness raising with the local community help to address and reduce the threat of poisoning in this landscape.

For more information, contact, North Carolian Zoo's Corinne Kendall, who is also on the IUCN Vulture Specialist Group.

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See Also: 

vultureprogramoverview_2017.pdf
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File Type:	pdf

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