Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus is at risk of extinction in Benin: a result of its poaching for belief-based use and decreasing food availability

Abstract In recent years, the situation of Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus in West Africa has gone sour. However, in some restricted area in this region the species is still found in relative abundance. To find out more about the situation in West Africa, we set out to assess and ascertain the status of the Hooded Vulture in Northern Benin. We conducted road counts, on paved and unpaved roads and along small trails over a total length of 1451 km linking a total of 33 towns and townships. While the road counts were being conducted, we also explored and examined potential threats in Hooded Vultures based on interviews conducted with local abattoir watchmen, veterinarians, butchers and foresters. A total of 52 Hooded Vultures were counted mostly in the departments of Atacora (32) but also in Alibori (10) and Borgou (10). The relative abundance was four Hooded Vultures per 100 km, highlighting the near extirpation of this bird from Benin. A total of 49 interviews revealed that poaching for belief-based use (through shooting, and traps) and decreasing food availability remain the most important threats for Hooded Vultures in Northern Benin. If these threats are not mitigated, we predict the extirpation of the Hooded Vulture in the years ahead in Benin. Conservation measures including awareness campaigns, and the improvement and enforcement of legislation to guarantee the protection of Hooded Vultures, must be urgently implemented for their conservation.