Population Status and Habitat Preferences of the Critically Endangered African White‐Backed Vulture ( <i>Gyps africanus</i> ) in Southwest Ethiopia Region

Abstract

ABSTRACT The African white‐backed vulture ( Gyps africanus ), a critically endangered scavenger, is rapidly declining in Africa due to habitat loss, poisoning and human activities. Understanding of population status and habitat use is essential for targeted conservation in Africa. This study examines population status and habitat preferences in Afromontane forests of southwest Ethiopia. Systematic field surveys from June 2024 to February 2025 across three habitats (abattoirs, waste disposal and breeding sites) documented population parameters and habitat preferences. A total of 1150 white‐backed vultures were observed. Sightings peaked at breeding sites during the wet season. A total of 341 individuals were counted in the abattoirs sites (mean ± SD: 3.31 ± 3.95), 262 in dump sites (mean ± SD: 3.54 ± 4.34) and 547 in breeding sites (mean ± SD: 15.19 ± 5.05), with numbers varying by daily activity and seasons. The age structure shows that adults comprised 79.5% of sightings, indicating low juvenile numbers and possible recruitment issues. These vultures showed a strong preference for roosting and nesting areas in Juniperus procera, Olea welwetschia, and Podocarpus falcatus, which were the most heavily used, highlighting the importance of Afromontane Forest. Key threats identified in the region include habitat degradation, agricultural expansion near breeding cliffs, and food competition with domestic dogs, other raptors, and wild animals. Directly protect key tree species to preserve roosting and breeding areas; manage waste at abattoirs and dumping sites to ensure stable food supplies; and conduct seasonal monitoring to maximize intervention efficiency.