Assessment of community attitudes, local perceptions and potential threats to the Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus) in The Gambia

Abstract

Hooded Vultures are a critically endangered species with relatively few studies conducted within their primary geographic range. This study assessed community attitudes, perceptions and threats to Hooded Vultures in The Gambia, based on responses from 200 individuals in 20 communities using structured questionnaires. The results showed a generally positive attitude towards vultures, with most respondents recognising their ecological importance, particularly for waste management and disease prevention. However, a notable proportion of the population held negative perceptions, influenced by cultural beliefs that associate vultures with death or spiritual beings, complicating conservation efforts. The main threats perceived by respondents were poisoning, habitat loss and the use of vulture parts for belief-based uses. Our findings also suggest that targeted education efforts, especially in areas where belief-based practices are prevalent, could significantly reduce harmful actions towards vultures. Without such interventions, the decline in vulture populations is quite imminent and could have serious ecological consequences, including disruptions to waste management systems and wider ecosystem health, highlighting the urgent need for action.