Identifying suitable habitats and the factors influencing breeding success for critically endangered white-rumped vulture (WRV) Gyps bengalensis plays an important role in their protection, which is explored to limited extent in Nepal. This study used maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model to identify potentially suitable nesting sites for WRV in Nepal and examined the factors influencing the breeding success of WRV in Rupandehi and Kapilvastu districts, Western Nepal. Habitat variables, including vegetation characteristics, nest location, human disturbances, and habitat degradation, were assessed through field surveys and direct observation. Chi-square tests were used to test the significance of association between breeding success and these variables. Distribution modeling identified 31,095.8 km² as suitable nesting location, preferably in the lowlands. Altogether 44 nests were identified in Rupandehi and Kapilvastu district, with a breeding success rate of 47.5% for active nests and 43.8% for occupied nests. All active nests were built on Terminalia alata trees, with an average height of 23.9 ± 4.9 m. Nesting sites were mostly located at forest edges near the rivers and human settlements. Nest height, tree felling intensity, forest fire, human presence, foot trails, and distance from the vehicle road have a negative impact on breeding success. However, no significant associations were detected between breeding success and the number of branches supported, Diameter at Breast Height (DBH), and grazing intensity. This study demonstrates that habitat destruction and disturbances hinder WRV’s breeding ecology, leading to the demand for robust conservation measures.

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