Vultures as commodities

Charlie Hamilton James's Image

Charlie posed as a tourist at a market in Johannesburg, South Africa, that was selling dead endangered lappet-faced vultures.

Some believe vultures can see into the future, so parts such as their brains are used by witch doctors to make predictions. It is likely the vulture’s excellent eyesight, being able to spot carcasses up to four kilometres away whilst soaring 6,000 metres above the ground, inspired this belief.


Behind the lens

Charlie Hamilton James

UK

Charlie Hamilton James is a wildlife and conservation photographer for National Geographic Magazine. He specialises in stories and issues in South America and East Africa. He has shot 14 stories for National Geographic.

Image details

  • Sony DSC-RX 100M3
  • 24-70mm f1.8-2.8 lens
  • 1/640 sec at f5.6
Copyright in WPY competition photographs remains the property of the respective photographers. You may not copy, share, reproduce or republish the photographs except as expressly permitted by copyright law. For media image usage enquiries, please contact us.

More images from Charlie Hamilton James

View all
Light path
Filthy riches
Inside job

Support our important work


Help us harness the power of photography to advance scientific knowledge, spread awareness of important issues and nurture a global love for nature.

Donate now

Discover more

Sign up to our newsletter

Receive email updates about Wildlife Photographer of the Year news, events, science, products, services and fundraising activities. We may occasionally include third-party content from our corporate partners and other museums. We will not share your personal details with these third parties. You must be over the age of 13. Privacy notice.