How long can large eagles and vultures go without food?

Large eagles and vultures are capable of going for long periods without food, an adaptation that serves their specific lifestyles.12

For vultures, this ability is a key feature of their "feast-or-famine" scavenging existence. Many species possess a large throat pouch, known as a crop, which allows them to ingest significant amounts of food at one time—often several days' worth of rations—and store it to be digested gradually. Similarly, larger species of raptors, including eagles, can endure extended intervals without eating without suffering ill effects.12

While these birds are capable of fasting, their feeding frequency generally depends on their appetite and the size of their prey; for instance, a crowned eagle may consume a mammal weighing approximately 4 kg (9 pounds) every three to four days.2