White-backed Vulture look-alikes
Gyps africanus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the White-backed Vulture. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Rüppell's Vulture
Gyps rueppellii
Key differences
Rüppell's Vulture is generally larger and has a more mottled, scaly appearance on its underparts due to pale feather edgings. Its head and neck are paler, often greyish-white, and it lacks the distinct white lower back of the White-backed Vulture. In flight, Rüppell's has a more uniform dark underwing, whereas the White-backed shows a contrast between pale body and dark flight feathers.
Cape Vulture
Gyps coprotheres
Key differences
The Cape Vulture is significantly larger and paler overall, with a creamy-white body and dark flight feathers. Its head and neck are pale yellow to pinkish, and it has a prominent yellow bill. It lacks the distinct white lower back of the White-backed Vulture. Its underwing coverts are also paler than the White-backed.
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