International Vulture Day

On the first Saturday of September we celebrate International Vulture Day, which depending on the country where it is observed, is also called International Vulture Awareness Day or International Turkey Vulture Day, which aims to raise awareness about the dangers faced by these birds, promote protection measures and commemorate the actions of associations fighting to conserve them.

Around the world, vultures are managing the dangers in the wild, and their numbers are declining. The vulture’s key role in signaling the presence of a carcass to other scavengers prevents pathogen contamination and helps keep nature free of disease. As nature’s recyclers, they play an important role in a variety of ecosystems, and it’s up to us to help them.

Importance of scavenger birds

Scavenger birds play a crucial role in ecosystems and are vital to maintaining the balance and health of the environment. Although they can often be seen as unpleasant animals due to their feeding on animal remains, their importance should not be underestimated.

Scavenger birds play an essential role in the life cycle and dynamics of ecosystems. Their absence or decline can have negative effects on the health of the environment and biodiversity in general. Therefore, it is important to recognize and value their role and contribution to ecosystems rather than viewing them as undesirable animals.

The vulture as a cultural animal

Often associated with death and decay due to its role as a consumer of carrion, the vulture has also been the subject of symbolic and mythological interpretations in various cultures around the world.

Egyptian mythology: the vulture was associated with the goddess Nekhbet, who represented protection and motherhood.

Native American cultures: in some North American Indian cultures, the vulture had spiritual and symbolic connotations.

Traditional medicine: in some cultures, especially in traditional medicine, parts of the vulture have been used in remedies and potions. This may be attributed to the belief in its supposed healing or mystical properties.