Dire Vultures

Dire Vultures are horrifying birds of prey that resemble giant vultures. Like their smaller cousins, they are a scavenger species that feast upon the corpses of those that have died within the Dead Sands - of which there are many. Their broad wings, covered in feathers as dark as the night itself, resemble a cascade of darkness in larger groups and spread a shadow of doom upon those dying in the sand. These birds are able to smell blood from leagues away, and they are drawn it like a moth to flame. Wherever Dire Vultures are seen to fly and gather, you can be sure that death is surely nearby. According to traditional Carrionite texts, they are sacred beasts, agents of the gods that carry the spirits of the dead to the sky in order to be returned to the heavens. 
Though a large majority of Carrionites have long since abandoned these traditions and beliefs, the Dire Vultures themselves are still held in high regard by most Carrion Kings. However, where before they were revered as divine creatures, they are now sought after as pets and war beasts. Part of this popularity no doubt lies in the Carrionites' own vulture-like appearance, but the main factor is their sheer killing potential. Wealthier Carrion Kingdoms field entire flocks of these giant birds to seek out a hostile force - or at least peck out the eyes of those running away. Dire Vultures are, unsurprisingly, effective at both.