Griffon Vulture

1 day ago

Spotted

The Griffon Vulture is a large Old World vulture with a distinctive long neck, white ruff, and broad wings. It is a social scavenger, often gathering in large numbers at carcasses. This powerful flyer can soar effortlessly on thermals for hours.

Where to spot

Common in mountainous and rocky areas of Southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, particularly India. Look for them nesting on cliffs and soaring over open country.

How to spot

Identify them by their immense size, buff body, pale head and neck, and dark flight feathers. In flight, their wings are held in a slight 'V' shape, and their broad, paddle-like wings are distinctive. Look for groups circling over potential food sources or resting on cliff ledges.

When to spot

Griffon Vultures are largely resident in their breeding areas year-round. They are most active during the day, especially when thermals are strong, allowing them to soar and search for food.

Where to spot

Common in mountainous and rocky areas of Southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, particularly India. Look for them nesting on cliffs and soaring over open country.

How to spot

When to spot

Griffon Vultures are largely resident in their breeding areas year-round. They are most active during the day, especially when thermals are strong, allowing them to soar and search for food.

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Credits: TvdMost

Credits: Kitty Terwolbeck

Griffon Vultures can fly at incredibly high altitudes, often soaring over 5,000 meters (16,000 feet) to locate carrion. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot carcasses from vast distances.

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