Bearded Vulture

22 hours ago

Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Bearded Vulture, also known as the Lammergeier, is a majestic Old World vulture of staggering size. Unlike other vultures, it primarily feeds on bone marrow, often dropping bones from heights to shatter them. Its rusty-orange plumage is unique among raptors.

Where to spot

Look for Bearded Vultures in mountainous regions across Southern Europe, the Caucasus, Africa, and Asia, including the Himalayas. They prefer remote, rugged landscapes with cliffs for nesting and soaring.

How to spot

Spot them by their immense size, diamond-shaped tail, and long, pointed wings. In flight, they show a unique rusty underside (for adults) and dark 'beard' of bristles under their beak. Scan cliff faces and high mountain valleys.

When to spot

Bearded Vultures are non-migratory and can be observed year-round in their mountainous habitats. Early morning and late afternoon thermals are often good times to spot them soaring high above ridges.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

Bearded Vultures are non-migratory and can be observed year-round in their mountainous habitats. Early morning and late afternoon thermals are often good times to spot them soaring high above ridges.

Credits: By © Giles Laurent, gileslaurent.com, License CC BY-SA, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=142132691

Bearded Vultures deliberately 'paint' their white feathers with iron-rich soil and dust, giving them their characteristic rusty-orange color. This behaviour is thought to be a sign of dominance or a form of self-medication.

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