Darwin called them “disgusting.” The biblical books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy call them “unclean.” Vultures have a generally bad reputation, but experts point out that the carnivorous birds play vital ecological roles.
In recent decades, vulture populations around the world have been plummeting, primarily due to human behaviors. WFAE's Mark Rumsey got some insights on vultures from Dr. Corinne Kendall, Associate Curator of Conservation and Research at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro. Dr. Kendall is involved in international efforts to protect endangered vultures.
Check out the Vultures Rock website for educational resources aimed at children.
Related: National Geographic: Vultures Are Revolting. Here's Why We Need Them