Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
NameLammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
Common NameBearded Vulture
Scientific NameGypaetus barbatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)275
Length (cm)110
Weight (g)6150
Plumage DetailsAdults display a rusty-orange head and underparts, often stained by iron-rich soil, contrasting with dark greyish-brown upperparts and wings. A prominent black mask extends from the eyes into a distinctive 'beard' of bristles under the chin. Juveniles are uniformly dark brown.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce high-pitched whistles, hisses, and cackles, particularly during breeding displays or when interacting at a carcass.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountainous regions, cliffs, high-altitude grasslands
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound across a fragmented range in mountainous areas of Southern Europe (Pyrenees, Alps, Balkans), the Caucasus, parts of Africa (Ethiopia, East Africa, Southern Africa), and Asia (Himalayas, Central Asia, Middle East).
Identifying Featureslong, narrow, pointed wings, wedge-shaped tail, rusty-orange head and underparts (adults), black facial mask and 'beard', bone-dropping behavior
Description
A very large and distinctive Old World vulture, known for its unique diet primarily consisting of bone marrow. It soars gracefully on long, narrow wings over rugged mountainous terrain, often dropping bones from great heights to break them open and access the marrow.
