Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
Image: Лариса Некрасова (cc-by-nc)
NameLammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
Common NameBearded Vulture
Scientific NameGypaetus barbatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)285
Length (cm)110
Weight (g)6150
Plumage DetailsAdults display a creamy-white to rusty-orange head and underparts, often stained by iron oxides. They have a prominent black 'beard' of bristles under the beak and a black mask around the eyes. The back and upperwings are dark grey to black. Juveniles are uniformly dark brown to black, gradually developing adult coloration over several years.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce high-pitched whistles, hisses, and cackles, particularly during breeding season or when interacting near the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, cliffs, gorges, alpine pastures
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeDiscontinuously distributed across southern Europe (Pyrenees, Alps, Balkans), the Caucasus, parts of the Middle East, Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and eastern and southern Africa.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size with long, narrow, pointed wings, Long, wedge-shaped tail, Adults: Rusty-orange underparts and head, black 'beard' and eye mask, Juveniles: Dark overall plumage, Soaring flight pattern, Unique osteophagous (bone-eating) diet
Description
The Bearded Vulture is a majestic Old World vulture known for its unique diet primarily consisting of bone marrow. It exhibits a distinctive silhouette in flight with long, narrow wings and a wedge-shaped tail. Adults have a striking rusty-orange underside and head, contrasting with dark upperparts.
