Vultures at risk as elephants push their trees down

AN endangered vulture species is being threatened by elephants, conservationists have warned.

-  Emily Wright

And experts are trying to find a solution before "it's too late".

Trees that are used for nesting by lappetfaced vultures in Africa are decreasing because elephants are pushing them over.

Dr Campbell Murn, of the Hawk Conservancy Trust charity group, said that while the lappet is considered endangered on the global conservation list, if it was reassessed today the species would likely be considered critically endangered due to the increased threats.

Elephants topple the trees to eat their leaves, berries and roots but this has a devastating impact on vultures.