Despite rumors and a "bad reputation," vultures play an important role in the environment, said the director of a conservation organization. "They play a crucial role in the natural habitats -- as scavengers -- they clean our countryside of dead animals and carcasses, thus helping maintaining a certain hygiene," Dr. Jose Tavares, the head of Vulture Conservation Foundation told Anadolu Agency. Speaking about International Vulture Awareness Day, celebrated annually on ...