Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
Image: Vladislav Mochalov (cc-by-nc)
NameLammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
Common NameBearded Vulture
Scientific NameGypaetus barbatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)285
Length (cm)110
Weight (g)6000
Plumage DetailsAdults have a creamy-white head with a black mask and a prominent 'beard' of bristles, rusty-orange underparts (often stained by iron oxides), and dark greyish-black upperparts. Juveniles are dark brown overall, gradually lightening with age.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce high-pitched whistles, hisses, or mewing calls, particularly during breeding season or when interacting at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, cliffs, alpine regions, gorges
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in a discontinuous range across mountainous regions of southern Europe, Africa (Ethiopian Highlands, Atlas Mountains, parts of East and Southern Africa), and Asia (Caucasus, Himalayas, Central Asia to China).
Identifying Featuresvery large size, long, narrow wings, wedge-shaped tail, adults with rusty underparts and black 'beard', bone-dropping behavior, soaring flight pattern
Description
The Lammergeier, also known as the Bearded Vulture, is a large Old World vulture renowned for its unique diet of bone marrow. It inhabits high mountainous regions, soaring gracefully on long, narrow wings and exhibiting a distinctive wedge-shaped tail.
