Lammergeier
NameLammergeier
Common NameBearded Vulture
Scientific NameGypaetus barbatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)275
Length (cm)110
Weight (g)6200
Plumage DetailsAdults display a rusty-orange coloration on their head, neck, and underparts, often stained by iron-rich soil. They have a black mask across the eyes and a distinctive tuft of black bristles under the beak, forming a 'beard'. The back and upperwings are dark grey to black. Juveniles are uniformly dark brown/black.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce high-pitched whistles, trills, and cackles, particularly during breeding displays or when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountainous regions, cliffs, high altitudes, alpine pastures
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeIts range is vast but fragmented, spanning mountainous areas across Southern Europe (e.g., Pyrenees), Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, extending to the Himalayas.
Identifying Featureslong, wedge-shaped tail, narrow, pointed wings, rusty-orange underside (adults), black facial mask and 'beard', bone-eating diet
Description
The Lammergeier, or Bearded Vulture, is a large Old World vulture characterized by its unique diet of bone marrow. It exhibits an eagle-like silhouette in flight with long, narrow wings and a distinctive wedge-shaped tail. Adults have a striking rusty-orange plumage on their underside and head.
