What is the conservation status assigned to the Asian Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?
Answer
Critically Endangered
The Red-headed Vulture (*Sarcogyps calvus*), an inhabitant of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, faces an extreme threat to its survival. It is officially listed as Critically Endangered, reflecting a massive decline in its population numbers across its native range. This dire status contrasts sharply with the relatively common status of its North American counterpart, the Turkey Vulture. The primary driver behind this catastrophic decline involves the vultures feeding on livestock carcasses treated with certain veterinary drugs.

Related Questions
What family classification distinguishes the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) from the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?What is the conservation status assigned to the Asian Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?What specific flight posture, often displayed by the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), involves holding wings in a slight V-shape?Which veterinary drug, when consumed via carcasses, has caused a drastic population plummet for the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?What is the fundamental biological reason both vulture types lack feathers on their heads when consuming carrion?How does the head coloration of an adult Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) compare to that of its juveniles?What distinguishing plumage feature is present on the neck of the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) but is absent in the Turkey Vulture (C. aura)?What unique sensory adaptation allows the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) to locate fresh carcasses, often surpassing sight-reliant scavengers?Where is the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) frequently seen, contrasting with the primary range of Sarcogyps calvus?How is the head skin texture of the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) described when contrasted with the Turkey Vulture's head?