BATELEUR Terathopius ecaudatus

These birds spend 8-9 hours per day in the air. They usually fly at a height of 50-250ft. Sometimes covering 250km per day. In Djuma and the surrounding area, 80% of their diet is scavenging.

They do however also kill small reptiles, will also feed on road kills. They are very endangered through feeding on poisoned baits placed out for problem animals in farming areas. Young take at least 5-7 years to become fully mature and capable of breeding.

They breed from January to April. They nest in large thorn trees on a platform of sticks. The female incubates from 52-59 days. Usually only 2% of the population makes it to adulthood.