Griffon Vulture
Gyps fulvus
Also known as: Eurasian Griffon
The Griffon Vulture is a magnificent scavenger of the Old World, known for its immense wingspan and soaring flight. They live in colonies on steep cliffs and travel huge distances over open country to locate carcasses, often relying on other birds to spot food first. Their highly acidic stomachs allow them to safely digest rotting meat that would be toxic to other animals.
Did you know?
Griffon Vultures often nest on cliffs and use thermals to travel long distances with minimal effort. Quick Facts
Detailed Information on the Griffon Vulture
Weight
9 kg
Height
110 cm
Length
112 cm
Wingspan
250 cm
Top Speed
75
km/h
Social Structure:
Colonial
Activity Pattern:
Diurnal
Trophic Level: Scavenger
Migration: Resident/Partial migratory
Population Trend: Increasing
Main Threats:
- Poisoning
- Electrocution (power lines)
Monfragüe National Park (Spain)
Gamla (Israel)
Family: Accipitridae
Order: Accipitriformes