Vultures are disappearing in Nigeria due to hunting and traditional beliefs, but a local resident is fighting to reverse the trend.

In Nigeria, vultures are disappearing due to hunting linked to traditional beliefs and spiritual practices. However, in one part of south-eastern Nigeria, residents are working to protect the birds. A local resident, known as the Vulture King, is leading the effort to conserve vultures in the area.

Importance of Vultures

Vultures play a crucial role in ecosystems by consuming dead animals and preventing the spread of disease. Without vultures, ecosystems would lose a natural defense against the spread of disease. According to conservation biologist Stella Egbe, the disappearance of vultures can have serious consequences, including the rise of zoonotic diseases.

Threats to Vultures

The use of vultures and their body parts in traditional medicine and Vodun has emerged as a significant driver of their decline. Poisoning is also a major cause of death for vultures, with an estimated 60% of vulture deaths in Africa attributed to poisoning. Additionally, the destruction of tall trees that vultures nest in has contributed to their decline.

Conservation Efforts

The Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) is working to protect vultures in the area. Local resident Chukwuemeka Igwe, also known as the Vulture King, has been working with the NCF for six years to mobilize community leaders, local groups, and security teams to protect the birds. Local volunteers have recorded over 160 vultures in the area, up from around 20 previously.