Belief-based use increasing threat to yellow-billed kite, an important African scavenger

As vulture populations in West Africa continue to decline, poachers are increasingly targeting yellow-billed kites, which are abundant but often overlooked. Despite being classified as "least concern," these adaptable birds are now being hunted due to misguided beliefs about their supposed medicinal or spiritual value. This trend not only threatens the yellow-billed kite's population but also disrupts the ecological balance, as these birds play a crucial role in scavenging and maintaining healthy ecosystems. The increasing threat underscores the need for better conservation strategies and awareness programs.