A team of scientists from the Doñana Biological Station and the National Museum of Natural Sciences, both research centers of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), has documented a previously unknown behavior in the African Palm-Nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis): the successful capture of live prey in open marine waters.

The observations, conducted between January and March 2025 near the city of Bata in Equatorial Guinea, showed several individuals diving toward the sea surface and capturing prey measuring approximately 20–30 centimeters in length, in a manner strikingly similar to that of ospreys and other fish-specialist birds of prey.

The findings provide new insights into the feeding ecology of this remarkable African species, which is already well known for consuming oil palm fruits. The study suggests that fish may be a far more important component of its diet than previously thought.

A “Vulture” That Behaves Like an Osprey

The Palm-Nut Vulture is unique among African birds of prey. Although it belongs to the same broader group as the vultures found across Europe, Africa, and Asia, its feeding habits are highly unusual. In addition to carrion, it consumes large quantities of fruit, as well as fish, crabs, eggs, and small vertebrates.

For decades, scientists debated whether the species should truly be considered a vulture or rather an eagle-like raptor. Recent phylogenetic studies have confirmed that it belongs to a distinct evolutionary lineage, separate from the classic scavenging vultures and more closely related to other birds of prey. The newly documented observations further support this view.

Unprecedented Observations in the Gulf of Guinea

The behavior was recorded off the coast of Bata, where 19 Palm-Nut Vultures were observed for more than two hours flying parallel to the shoreline at distances ranging from 150 to 400 meters offshore.

Researchers recorded eight hunting attempts over the sea, with an estimated success rate of around 50%, comparable to that of highly specialized fishing raptors such as the Osprey (Pandion haliaetus).

In several instances, the birds plunged toward the water surface in a manner similar to ospreys and sea eagles before emerging with prey held in their talons. The authors suggest that the prey may have included juvenile ocean sunfish (Mola mola) or young sea turtles.

The birds were also observed carrying their catches in their talons for more than one kilometer over the sea before disappearing from view, suggesting they may have been transporting food directly to their nests.

Ecological and Evolutionary Implications

The study also raises new hypotheses regarding the species’ nutrition and evolution. The researchers suggest that palm fruits may provide carotenoids essential for the bright orange coloration of adult birds’ heads, while fish could supply key proteins required in their diet.

The authors believe these findings open important new avenues for research into the biology, behavior, and evolution of the Palm-Nut Vulture, one of the most enigmatic raptors of tropical Africa.