King Vulture

Hundreds of bird watchers and eco-tourists come to the region to observe this magnificent animal, impressive not only for its large size but also for its incredible colors.

The king of all vultures

The King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) is a large bird found in Central and South America. It is a member of the New World vulture family Cathartidae. This vulture lives predominantly in lowland tropical forests that extend from southern Mexico to northern Argentina. It is the only surviving member of the genus Sarcoramphus, although fossil members are known. In Costa Rica, one of the best places to see it is precisely in Boca Tapada and within the Maquenque Mixed Reserve.

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The buzzard can rise for hours without effort, flapping its wings infrequently. During flight, its wings are kept flat with slightly raised tips, and from a distance the buzzard may appear headless while in flight. Its heartbeat is deep and strong. Despite its size and striking colouring, this vulture is quite discreet when perching in trees. While perched, it keeps its head down and pushes forward. It is not migratory and, unlike the turkey, the black-and-yellow headed vulture generally lives alone or in small family groups.

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