Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)

Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Richard_Bartz" title="User:Richard Bartz">Richard Bartz</a>, Munich aka <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Makro_Freak" title="User:Makro Freak">Makro Freak</a> <span class="mw-default-size" typeof="mw:File"><a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Makro_Freak_bar.jpg" class="mw-file-description"><img src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8b/Makro_Freak_bar.jpg/60px-Makro_Freak_bar.jpg" decoding="async" width="80" height="15" class="mw-file-element" data-file-width="80" data-file-height="15"></a></span> (CC BY-SA 2.5)

NameLammergeier (Bearded Vulture)

Common NameLammergeier

Scientific NameGypaetus barbatus

FamilyAccipitridae

Wingspan (cm)287.5

Length (cm)110

Weight (g)6150

Plumage DetailsAdults have a creamy-white head with a prominent black mask extending from the beak through the eyes, and a 'beard' of black bristles under the chin. The underparts are often rusty orange, while the back and wings are dark grey to black.

Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can emit high-pitched whistles or yelps, especially during breeding or territorial displays.

Primary Dietcarnivore

Primary Habitatsmountains, cliffs, gorges, alpine pastures

Conservation Statusleast-concern

Geographic RangeDiscontinuous range across high mountain regions of Southern Europe, Africa (Ethiopian Highlands, East Africa), and Asia (Himalayas, Central Asia).

Identifying Featuresdistinctive black facial mask, black 'beard' of bristles, bright red sclera around the eye, rusty orange underparts (adults), large size with long, narrow wings, diamond-shaped tail

Description

The Lammergeier, also known as the Bearded Vulture, is a large Old World vulture known for its distinctive appearance and unique diet. It primarily feeds on carrion, specializing in bones, which it drops from great heights to break open.

Related Bird species

American Crow

Andean Condor

Roseate Spoonbill

Kakapo

Northern Gannet

Egyptian Plover