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<\/p>\nSEATTLE \u2014 For the first time in its 126-year history, Woodland Park Zoo is home to two critically endangered hooded vultures, a sub-Saharan African species whose global population has sharply declined in recent decades.<\/p>\n
The newcomers, Tutaonana and Kiara, have already settled into their exhibit across from the maned wolves, where staff said they\u2019ve taken a particular liking to raw meatballs.<\/p>\n
Tutaonana (too-tah-oh-NAH-nah), a nearly 1-year-old male, takes his name from the Swahili phrase for \u201csee you later,\u201d while Kiara (kee-AH-rah), a female turning 2 this month, is named for \u201cprincess.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite their somewhat regal introduction, hooded vultures are better known for their workmanlike habits. As scavengers, they are often called \u201cnature\u2019s cleanup crew,\u201d rapidly consuming animal remains and helping prevent the spread of disease.<\/p>\n
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Two critically endangered hooded vultures are now viewable to the public at the Woodland Park Zoo. (Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren\/Woodland Park Zoo)<\/p>\n
\u201cHooded vultures are remarkable survivors and essential to a healthy ecosystem,\u201d said Shawn Pedersen, the zoo\u2019s curator of ornithology. \u201cWe\u2019re excited to welcome this critically endangered species to the zoo to inspire curiosity in our guests and help ensure the future of these birds.\u201d<\/p>\n
Guests may find themselves doing a double-take at the birds\u2019 appearance.<\/p>\n
Hooded vultures feature dark brown plumage and a distinctive look created by the thin, bare skin on their heads and faces \u2014 the source of their name.<\/p>\n
Their wingspan, stretching well over 5 feet, adds to their striking presence.<\/p>\n