Primary causes for its demise are habitat destruction and poaching. As its preferred habitat is rain forest, it is likely that future populations will be substantially diminished in association with the projected continuing removal of large tracts of rain forest. Occurs from sea level to 3000 feet. Formerly occurred in Honduras. They are most often observed singly or in pairs as opposed to the colonial behavior of other cathartids.
King vultures are diurnal carnivorous scavengers.
Numerous individuals kept in exposed conditions have been reported to have suffered frostbitten toes and feet, with some subsequently losing extremities or requiring euthanasia. King vultures are long-lived, have low fecundity, and have comparatively simple husbandry needs. Although typical seasonal production would consist of a single egg, some pairs have produced up to three chicks in a season when the hatchlings are lost or taken relatively early. King vultures are sensitive when nesting and have a tendency to kill hatchlings. Hand-raised individuals are accordingly not uncommon.