We are what we eat, plus some per mill: Using stable isotopes to estimate diet composition in Gypsvultures over space and time

Stable isotope analysis reveals that Gyps vultures in the Serengeti National Park and Selous Game Reserve primarily feed on grazing herbivores, with those in the park consuming over 87% grazer-based diets. The study used δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S isotopes from vulture feathers and blood to assess dietary composition, finding limited movement between the two sites despite baseline differences in plant sulfur isotopes (δ34S). Bayesian modeling suggested consistent herbivore consumption over ~159 days before sampling. While δ34S variation indicated spatial foraging differences, precise location matching remains uncertain. The research underscores the importance of repeated sampling and Bayesian techniques for dietary studies, though more data is needed to fully understand vulture ecology and conservation implications.

Baino, A. A., Hopcraft, G. G. J. C., Kendall, C. J., Newton, J., Behdenna, A., & Munishi, L. K. (2022). We are what we eat, plus some per mill: Using stable isotopes to estimate diet composition inGypsvultures over space and time. Ecology and Evolution, 12(3). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.8726