Old World vultures are found in the Eastern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. A diurnal bird of prey species can be found in almost every type of habitat, from the Arctic tundra to the desert. Peregrines prefer tundra, while gyrfalcons prefer the northern edges of boreal forests. Ospreys and bald eagles occupy areas near lakes, rivers, and coasts. Many species prefer forest habitats.
Some species can exploit a variety of habitats while others are restricted to one type of habitat.
They can be found in alpine areas down to deserts, grasslands, forests, and human suburbs. Migratory species occupy both breeding and nonbreeding habitats. Conversely, migration allows birds to return to breeding areas that have abundant food supplies for raising young. The majority of migration routes have a north and south direction. To supply the considerable energy needed for migration, birds accumulate extra body fat two to three weeks before departure.