BBC Nature - Lammergeier videos, news and facts Wild Africa Highly specialised vultures want just one thing from a carcass, bones! With a wingspan of 2 metres, the lammergeiers soar across the skies over the mountains. Picking out the bones from a carcass, they smash them against rocks to expose the nutritious bone marrow. Young birds need plenty of practise, it can take a full seven years to get bone breaking mastered. Distribution Species range provided by WWF's Wildfinder . The Lammergeier can be found in a number of locations including: Africa , Asia , China , Europe , Himalayas , Indian subcontinent , Russia . Find out more about these places and what else lives there. Habitats The following habitats are found across the Lammergeier distribution range. Find out more about these environments, what it takes to live there and what else inhabits them. Lammergeier videos, photos and facts - Gypaetus barbatus | ARKive Top Lammergeier biology Amongst the most skilled gliders, the lammergeier is magnificent in flight, hardly ever seeming to beat its wing as it soars high above the mountain passes (6) .

Although, like other vultures, the lammergeier is a consummate scavenger, it is somewhat unique in that it specialises at feeding on bones. While small bones are eaten whole, large bones are carried into the air, and dropped from height onto rocks below. This intriguing technique, which results in the bones shattering on the rocks, provides the bird with access to the nutritious marrow inside (2) (3) (6) . In addition to bones and other carrion, this species does take some live prey, such as tortoises, hyraxes and hares, which receive a similar treatment to the large bones (3) . The lammergeier breeds in pairs, with each pair commanding a large territory within which a nest is built on an accessible crag, a rocky ledge, or in a smallish cave. During the breeding season, which varies in timing geographically, courting pairs perform spectacular displays, swooping and soaring together, and occasionally interlocking their talons and spiralling downwards almost to the ground (3) (6) . The nest is made from a massive pile of branches lined with wool, dung, dried skin and sometimes even rubbish.

One to two eggs are normally laid in each clutch and incubated for around 53 to 60 days before hatching. The chicks fledge after 100 to 130 days but remain dependant on the parent birds for up to a year (3) . Young birds are known to wander widely, but adults are normally resident within huge home ranges (3) (7) . Top Lammergeier range The lammergeier ranges from southern Europe through the Middle East to northeastern China, and also occurs in parts of north, east and southern Africa (6) (7) (8) . Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis occurs in southwestern Arabia and east and southern Africa, while G. b. barbatus occupies the rest of its range (7) . Top Lammergeier threats Despite being widespread, the lammergeier occurs in low densities and is considered to be uncommon or rare across significant parts of its range (3) . Furthermore, most populations appear to be declining due to a range of factors including hunting, poisoning, habitat degradation and disturbance (3) (7) (8) .

Fortunately, however, there are some areas, such as the Himalayas, where the lammergeier remains abundant (6) (7) . Top Lammergeier conservation At the global level, the lammergeier’s rate of decline is not currently thought to be sufficiently rapid, or the population size sufficiently small, for this species to warrant classification under a threatened category on the IUCN Red List (1) (8) . However, because the lammergeier is extremely vulnerable in some regions such as Europe and Southern Africa, there are a several conservation projects being undertaken for this species. This includes an ambitious and highly successful reintroduction program in the European Alps which has been in operation since the late 1970s under the direction of the Foundation for the Conservation of the Bearded Vulture (7) . vulture | bird | Britannica.com Vulture chordate Vulture, any of 22 species of large, carrion-eating birds that live predominantly in the tropics and subtropics. The seven species of New World vultures include condor s, and the 15 Old World species include the lammergeier and griffons. Although many members of the two groups appear similar, they are only distantly related.

All of the New World vultures and some of the Old World vultures have bare heads, a condition that prevents feathers from matting with blood when the birds reach inside carcasses. Most vultures have a large pouch in the throat (crop) and can go for long periods without food—adaptations to a feast-or-famine scavenging lifestyle. In some species the beak is exceptionally strong and heavy for tearing hide, muscle, and even bone. Eyesight in all vultures is well developed, as is the sense of smell in the turkey vulture . Old World vultures have relatively strong feet, but New World Vultures have flat, weak feet that are poorly adapted for grasping. Vultures are widely distributed, but they are absent from Australia and most oceanic islands. Most have broad food habits, consuming carrion, garbage, and even excrement, but rarely do they descend upon live animals. A few occasionally take helpless prey such as lambs and tortoises or, in the case of Andean condor s, newborn calves. Vultures may remain aloft for hours, soaring gracefully on long, broad wings.

When one bird descends to a dead or dying animal , others may be attracted from miles away. When feeding, vultures maintain a strict social order based on body size and strength of beak. Smaller vultures must wait for the scraps left behind by the larger, dominant species. Even large vultures, however, give way to nearly all mammalian competitors, including jackals, hyenas, and coyotes. Griffon, Egyptian, and black vultures feeding on a dead goat in Bulgaria’s Rhodope Mountains. Contunico © ZDF Enterprises GmbH, Mainz Similar Topics hawk Most vultures inhabit open country, often roosting in groups on cliffs, in tall trees, or on the ground. Old World vultures build large stick platform nests in trees or on cliffs, sometimes in large colonies. Most of the larger Old World vultures lay only a single egg . New World vultures do not build nests but lay their eggs in bare scrapes in natural cavities in cliffs or trees; none nests colonially. The smaller New World vultures lay two eggs and incubate them for just over a month. The largest species lay only a single egg that may take nearly two months to hatch.

The young mature more slowly than those of typical birds of prey. New World vultures have no voice because they lack a syrinx ; they have a perforated nasal septum. New World vultures falconiform: The turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) is the most widespread New World vulture, breeding from Canada southward to the southern tip of South America . Northern populations are migratory. They are small brownish black vultures with red heads as adults (dark gray as juveniles) and a wingspan of nearly 2 metres (6.6 feet). They are usually the first to find carcasses, owing to their well-developed sense of smell, but they are more timid than other vultures and retreat while other species feed. Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura). Allan D. Cruickshank—The National Audubon Society Collection/Photo Researchers In addition to the California and Andean condor s, other notable New World vultures include the black vulture (Coragyps atratus), a New World vulture sometimes called a black buzzard or, inappropriately, a carrion crow .

The black vulture, the most abundant vulture species of all, is a resident of the tropics and subtropics that often wanders far into temperate regions. It is a chunky black bird about 60 cm (24 inches) long, with a very short tail, short wings, a bare black head, and a feathered hindneck. Black vulture, also known as the American black vulture (Coragyps atratus). © Arto Hakola/Shutterstock.com Female Andean condor (Vultur gryphus). Copyright F. Gohier/Photo Researchers New World vultures are generally classified with stork s in the order Ciconiiformes . Old World vultures The cinereous vulture, sometimes called the black vulture (Aegypius monachus), is one of the largest flying birds. Many scientists consider this bird to be the largest vulture and the largest bird of prey . It is about 1 metre (3.3 feet) long and 12.5 kg (27.5 pounds) in weight, with a wingspan of about 2.7 metres (8.9 feet).

Entirely black with very broad wings and a short, slightly wedge-shaped tail, it ranges through southern Europe , Asia Minor , and the central steppes and highest mountains of Asia , nesting in tall trees. Many of these regions are also inhabited by the slightly smaller bearded vulture, or lammergeier (Gypaetus barbatus). Asian white-backed vulture (Gyps bengalensis). Beverly Joubert—National Geographic/Getty Images The Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus), also called Pharaoh’s chicken, is a small Old World vulture about 60 cm (24 inches) long. It is white with black flight feathers, a bare face, and a cascading mane of feathers. This vulture’s range is northern and eastern Africa , southern Europe, and the Middle East to Afghanistan and India. The common griffon (Gyps fulvus), or Eurasian griffon, is an Old World vulture of northwestern Africa, the Spanish highlands, southern Russia, and the Balkans . Gray above and reddish brown with white streaking below, it is about a metre long.

The genus Gyps contains seven similar species, including some of the most common vultures. In South Asia three Gyps species, the Asian white-backed vulture (G. bengalensis), the long-billed vulture (G. indicus), and the slender-billed vulture (G. tenuirostris), have been brought close to extinction by feeding on the carcasses of dead cattle that had been given pain-killing drugs; the pain killers cause kidney failure in the vultures. Watch griffon vultures search for food on Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Contunico © ZDF Enterprises GmbH, Mainz Connect with Britannica Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Pinterest The lappet-faced vulture (Torgos tracheliotus), sometimes called the eared, or Nubian, vulture, is a huge Old World vulture of arid Africa. Being a metre tall, with a 2.7-metre (8.9-foot) wingspan, it dominates all other vultures when feeding. It is black and brown above and has a wedge-shaped tail; there is white down on the underparts. Large folds of skin hang from the sides of its bare head.

The face is pink or reddish. The palm-nut vulture (Gypohierax angolensis) lives in western and central Africa . It is about 50 cm (20 inches) long and has a bare orange face and yellow beak. It is unusual in being primarily vegetarian, although it sometimes takes crustaceans and dead fish. The red-headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvus), often called the Pondicherry vulture or the Indian (black) vulture, is an Old World vulture ranging from Pakistan to Malaysia. It is about 75 cm (30 inches) long and has a wingspan of about 2.7 metres (8.9 feet). It is black with white down on the breast and has a huge black beak and large lappets on the sides of the neck. The white-headed vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis) is about 80 cm (31 inches) long and has a wingspan of about 1.8 metres (6 feet). Black with white secondary wing feathers and belly, it has a high black neck fringe and a massive red beak.

This bird has a uniquely triangular head, which is pale yellowish and bare except for a cap of white down. Old World vultures comprise the subfamily Aegyptiinae of the hawk and eagle family, Accipitridae, which is part of the order Falconiformes . lammergeyers - Memidex dictionary/thesaurus lammergeyers lammergeyers is a plural form of lammergeyer lammergeyer the largest Eurasian bird of prey; having black feathers hanging around the bill Class: from German Lämmergeier, from Lämmer lambs + Geier vulture (Source: Collins Dictionary) [more] Bearded Vulture | Lammergeier | Lammergeyer | Gypaetus barbatus [species] a bird of prey, and the only member of the genus Gypaetus. Traditionally considered an Old World vulture, it actually forms a minor lineage of Accipitridae together with the Egyptian Vulture, its closest living relative. They are not much more closely ...

[species] | bearded vulture a very large Old World vulture with grayish-black plumage streaked with white and a tuft of bristles over the nostrils and under the bill; bearded ... (25 of 57 words, pronunciation, 1 image ) | bearded vulture [synonym, sense-specific] Same as "lammergeier" | a rare vultureof southern Europe, Africa, and Asia, with dark wings, a pale breast, and black feathers around the bill: family ... (24 of 218 words, 2 definitions, pronunciations) | Accipitridae [family, member of] a large Old World vulture of mountainous country, with a wingspan of 3 m (10 ft) and dark beard-like feathers, noted for its habit of dropping bones ... (27 of 74 words, pronunciation) lammergeier | lammergeyer | lammergeir | bearded vulture [synonym] the largest Eurasian bird of prey, "Gypaëtus barbatus", ranging in the mountains from southern Europe to China, having a wingspread of 9 to 10 ft. ...

(25 of 50 words, pronunciation) | ossifrage [lammergeier] a large Old World vulture that occurs in mountain regions and in flight resembles a huge falcon (17 of 42 words, pronunciations) lammergeier | bearded vulture | ossifrage | Gypaetus barbatus [species] A large predatory bird "(Gypaetus barbatus") of the vulture family, ranging from the mountainous regions of southern Europe to China and having a wide ... (24 of 69 words, pronunciation) | bearded vulture [synonym] lammergeier also spelled lammergeyer or lammergeir big eaglelike vulture of the Old World, frequently over 1 metre long, with a wingspread of nearly 3 ... | bearded vultures [birds, plural] a large vulture with dark wings and dark feathers that resemble a beard around its beak. It drops bones on rocks to break them in order to obtain ...

(28 of 78 words, pronunciations) encarta​.msn​.com​/dictionary 1861624816​/definition​.html [offline] Etymology references American Heritage Dictionary: lammergeier Origin: German Lämmergeier: Lämmer, genitive plural of Lamm, lamb (from Middle High German lamp, from Old High German ... (17 of 29 etymology words) New World Dictionary: lammergeier Origin: German lämmergeier from lämmer, plural of lamm, "lamb" + geier, vulture, akin to gier, greed from Indo-European ... (17 of 23 etymology words) Bearded vulture | WWF Bearded vulture Bearded vulture The bearded vulture is the Alps' largest bird and is one of the rarest raptors in Europe. It nests on high rock ledges and inhabits exclusively high mountainous areas. Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus).

Estimated Global Population 2,000-10,000 Bearded vultures were once found in almost all mountain ranges of southern Europe and the Alps. Probably no other raptor has made such a deep impression on people, as evidenced by the numerous fables and legends concerning it. Physical Description Bearded vultures have reddish yellow or white plumage on the head and breast with a grey black tail and wings. In the adult individual the black strip over the eyes and the bristles at the base of the beak form the distinctive appearance of a beard. Size Weight: 5-7kg Ecology & Habitat The Bearded vulture defends huge territories in which the pair feeds and breeds. A pair are unlikely to tolerate the presence of other mature individuals of the species in their territory. The territory size is about 200-400 km2 and therefore the distribution of the species is rather sparse. Life Cycle The bearded vulture is monogamous. In Europe, it forms a pair between November and December and eggs are laid between December and February.

They usually lay two eggs, but the 2nd egg, which is smaller, is a form of biological insurance and the chick is usually killed by its older sibling in the first weeks after hatching. Diet The bearded vulture is the only animal that feeds almost exclusively on bone (70-90%). In Crete, it is known as the "bone-eater". The bird throws the larger bones from a height on to rocky slopes in order to break them, and immediately descends after them in a characteristic spiral. If the bone does not break the first time, the method is repeated many times until the bone finally breaks. The bird then eats the bone pieces starting with the bone marrow. The smaller bones are swallowed whole, as the bird's gastric fluids are so strong that they can digest bone easily. This dietary habit seems odd, but once bones have been digested, they are a nutritious and easily storable type of food; in addition, the bird faces minimal competition for this type of food. Population & Distribution Approximately 100 breeding pairs exist in Europe today, mostly in the Pyrenees between France and Spain; on the Island of Corsica, on the Greek island of Crete and mailand Greece.

It has also been reintroduced in the European Alps through a captive breeding programme. Threats Historically, the bearded vulture was feared and it was believed they attacked lambs and even young children. As a result, they were hunted and eventually eradicated in the Alps. The main threats for the species today include lack of food, illegal use of poisoned baits set for "vermin" such as wolves, foxes, jackals and crows, habitat destruction and degradation, and illegal persecution. Other reasons for the decrease of the population were lack of food due to habitat degradation or loss because of changes in the land use. Disturbance may be another significant factor. Major habitat type lammergeier - Dictionary Definition : Vocabulary.com lammergeier n the largest Eurasian bird of prey; having black feathers hanging around the bill Synonyms: any of several large vultures of Africa and Eurasia WORD FORMS Usage Examples Sign up, it's free! Whether you're a student, an educator, or a life-long learner, Vocabulary.com can put you on the path to systematic vocabulary improvement.

Archived 2014 discussion: Lammergeier / Bearded Vulture* (Gypaetus barbatus): is it eligible for a higher threat category? | BirdLife's Globally Threatened Bird Forums BirdLife's Globally Threatened Bird Forums Posted on September 4, 2013 by Joe Taylor *Please note that BirdLife International will soon adopt ‘Bearded Vulture’ as the English name for this species. This discussion was first published as part of the 2012 Red List update, but remains open for comment to enable reassessment in 2014. BirdLife species factsheet for Lammergeier Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture) Gypaetus barbatus is a widespread inhabitant of mountainous areas in Asia, parts of northern, eastern and southern Africa, and southern Europe. It is listed as Least Concern on the basis that it is currently not thought to approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under any of the IUCN criteria.

This species has an extremely large range, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the range size criterion (Extent of Occurrence of less than 20,000 km2 combined with a declining or fluctuating range size, habitat extent/quality, or population size and a small number of locations or severe fragmentation). Despite the fact that the population trend appears to be decreasing, the decline is not believed to be sufficiently rapid to approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population trend criterion (at least a 30% decline over ten years or three generations). The population size may be small, but it is not believed to approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population size criterion (fewer than 10,000 mature individuals with a continuing decline estimated to be at least 10% over ten years or three generations, or with a specified population structure). Despite its current global Red List status, this species has been classed as endangered at the national level in many range states, and regarded as data deficient in many others (Gil et al. 2008, 2009; GRIN 2011 and references therein).

It is widely regarded that this species is in decline globally; however, the overall rate of decline has apparently not been estimated. Ferguson-Lees and Christie (2001) describe the species as having apparently experienced massive declines over the last two centuries. They also highlight that its range has been greatly reduced since the 1940s. The main causes of on-going declines appear to be non-target poisoning, direct persecution, habitat degradation, disturbance of breeding birds, inadequate food availability and collisions with power-lines (Ferguson-Lees and Christie 2001). Ferguson-Lees and Christie (2001) estimated the global population at fewer than 10,000 pairs, suggesting that there are fewer than 20,000 mature individuals; however, more recently the species was estimated to number between 10,000 and 100,000 individuals (Gil et al. 2008).

The species is scarce and declining in several sub-regions, especially southern Africa, where a relatively recent range contraction is thought to have been due to displacement by humans and livestock at lower elevations, along with other forms of habitat degradation (GRIN 2011 and references therein). Declines have also been noted in Free State and in former Transvaal, where it is now considered a vagrant, although in KwaZulu-Natal it may have expanded its range. Other threats affecting the species in southern Africa include targeted and incidental poisoning, other forms of direct persecution (including for traditional uses), changes in livestock-rearing practices, electrocution and collision with power-lines and habitat loss to development projects (GRIN 2011 and references therein). Simmons and Jenkins (2007) suggested that population trends in this species in southern Africa are correlated with climate trends. In addition, apparently severe declines have been noted in Ethiopia, and perhaps Eritrea, since the 1970s (Ash and Atkins 2009).

In Europe, the species appears to be increasing in the Alps and Pyrenees, although the overall population trend in Europe is unknown, and the EU species action plan is regarded as having been well-implemented overall; however, significant threats remain, including lead poisoning and wind-farm development (reviewed by BirdLife International 2011). The species’s status across its vast range in Asia is less certain, although it is likely to be more secure. In South Asia, the species is described as locally common, with the on-going clearance of remaining forest tracts in the lower Himalayas said to probably favour range expansion (Naoroji 2006). Similarly, it is described as frequent in Bhutan (Spierenburg 2005). Data and observations regarding population trends and numbers throughout the species’s range are requested so that a comprehensive review of its global threat status can be carried out. In particular, information is needed from China and Mongolia, northern South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East (especially Iran), south-eastern Europe (especially Turkey) and East Africa.

If evidence points towards a decline approaching 30% (typically 20-29%) over the last three generations, estimated by BirdLife to be c.53 years, then the species may be eligible for uplisting to Near Threatened under the A criteria. A decline of 30-49% over 53 years would qualify the species for uplisting to Vulnerable. References: Ash, J. and Atkins, J. (2009) Birds of Ethiopia & Eritrea: an atlas of distribution. London, UK: Christopher Helm. BirdLife International (2011) Review of the Implementation of Species Action Plans for Threatened Birds in the European Union (2004-2010). Brussels, Belgium: BirdLife International. Ferguson-Lees, J. and Christie, D. A. (2001) Raptors of the World. London, UK: Christopher Helm. Gil, J. A., Díez, O., Lorente, L., Báguena, G., Chéliz, G. and Ascaso, J. C. (2008) Tras el vuelo del quebrantahuesos.

La Garcilla 137: 16-17. Gil, J. A., Díez, O., Lorente, L., Báguena, G., Chéliz, G. and Ascaso, J. C. (2009) On the trail of the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus): world distribution and population. Fundación para la Conservación del Quebrantahuesos. Global Raptor Information Network (GRIN) (2011) Species account: Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus. Downloaded from on 5 Sep. 2011. Naoroji, R. (2006) Birds of Prey of the Indian Subcontinent. London, UK: Christopher Helm. Simmons, R.E., and Jenkins, A. R. (2007) Is climate change influencing the decline of Cape and Bearded Vultures in southern Africa? Vulture News 56: 41-51. Spierenburg, P. (2005) Birds in Bhutan: Status and Distribution. Bedford, UK: Oriental Bird Club.

September 11, 2011 at 12:39 pm The species is rarely recorded in our countries where only one individual was recorded in 2010 in southern Egypt by members of the National Birds Monitoring team since then no more records of the species was reported, therefore it is worth to be recognized as species under high risk. September 26, 2011 at 7:32 pm For adding a modest contribution about Bearded vulture in North Western Africa, I would say that: – according to the present data (database with 507 old and present observations), Moroccan population estimate is about 5 up to a maximum of ten reproductive units, all of them in High Atlas – situation is unknown in Algeria (last sightings in the nineties, but with present situation, who knows?) – extinct in Tunisia So I would propose a Critically Endangered status for North Western bearded vulture population. With Michel Thévenot, we are presently writing a article about Moroccan population.

October 6, 2011 at 1:33 pm Bearded Vulture status in Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania As a side project during an attempted re-introduction programme of Bearded Vultures from Ethiopia to Hell’s Gate in Kenya in 1999-2003, my colleagues and I noted healthy popualtions of Bearded Vultures in Ethiopia, nesting in severely modifided “anthropogenic” landscapes, much different to the 1960-1970 period in which Leslie Brown did his work and estimate. We reserved comment regarding their status due to the impossibility of conducting a comparative method and concern as to its accuracy. We found between-nest distances as surprisingly high for a species as large. If used with modern GIS that identifies all possible suitable cliffs within “Afro-alpine” zones I felt sure the total numbers would be sufficiently high as to NOT warrant immediate concern. Until improved techniques (rather than road counts) are used, (such as rotor craft survey and GIS maps) I feel a true status review seriously flawed in a country of such dramatic terrain and poor accessibility.

But that was a decade ago and negative factors facing all raptors in general in Ethiopia increase in parallel to their human population growth. In Kenya the status is dire with 3 known nesting sites and poor outlook for others. In Tanzania there may be 6 or more nest sites. In Uganda the status is unknown today, but with evidence of near total loss of the Mt Elgon population. These sub-populations are certainly imperilled. The most pressing matter today for all scavenging birds in Eastern Africa is poisoning. If populations in Ethiopia copy that of Est Africa, then the species is well deserving of uplisting. October 11, 2011 at 5:22 am In South-East Kazakhstan (Zailiysky Alatau, Northern Tien Shan) the population of Lammergeier seems stable. There were not special surveys, bur general impression is the number is the same as e.g. 20 years ago. It is not numerous, but regularely observed. In Aksu-Dzhabagly Nature Reserve (Talassky Alatau, Western Tien Shan, pers. comm. of Yelena Chalikova) the number is stable, too.

Stanislav Viter June 1, 2014 at 3:49 pm Now there is a threatening habitat degradation species in Iran, Afghanistan , the mountainous regions of Iraq , Turkey, western Pakistan . The reason – a manifold increase in grazing in the mountains , increasing human population. Pipeline construction through Altai and the Caucasus Mountains and can lead to degradation of the largest breeding populations of species in these regions. Planned construction of electric power from Tajikistan through Afghanistan to Pakistan and India can lead to death of most of the young birds in the western Hindu Kush , Khyber Agency , Bandi- Turkestan , Swat. Thus, at least one third of the species range is in the zone of special risk. This zone is located, possibly, the densest Lammergeiers population. I believe that an assignment category “vulnerable” quite adequately.

November 16, 2011 at 5:59 pm I wanted to provide some comments regarding the status of populations in Europe and Asia: in Europe (European Union) the population has grown in the Alps (with the emergence of new breeding pairs due to the reintroduction project, 19 pairs in 2010) , as in the Pyrenees, particularly in its central part (Aragon, Spain), from its population of 39 pairs in 1994 to 72 pairs in 2010. Yet the European population (175 pairs in 2010) and more particularly that of Spain (with two reintroduction projects under way, Andalusia and Cantabrian Mountains-), follow Endangered considering, as some problems persist conservation: poisons and shock and electrocution with power lines mainly. In Asia, we should seek more information from the Himalayas, with respect to the impact it has had on the diflofenac populations.

Rishad Naoroji November 17, 2011 at 8:34 am The Bearded Vulture in India is locally common throughout the Indian Himalaya from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh. Some altitude movement occurs during winter when very occasionally around Corbett National Park, individuals seen as low as 600 m. in the lower foothills. It was earlier commonly seen in the western and central Himalaya, but in the recent few years not observed it as frequently in the central lower Himalaya due perhaps to disturbance. No serious evaluation of its population status has been conducted. As long as carcass availability is not negatively affected, the species should survive. Populations in Ladakh and along the high Himalaya are to my knowledge secure. November 22, 2011 at 9:32 am I am just providing data on the species population size the island of Crete (Greece) that could be useful for the assessment of its European conservation status. There are 6 breeding pairs on the island or an estimated population of 40 individuals (max) which constitute the entire Greek population.

The species had been enlisted as critically endangered in the Greek Red Data Book although it shows signs of recovery and a positive population trend compared to the decades. However, at present the plans of the wind farm industry on the island (4000 MW) pose the major and worst threat for its survival. I believe that the eligibility of the species for a higher threat category should first consider the reevaluation of the Russian and Turkish populations which I fear that are overestimated. Carol Inskipp and Hem Sagar Baral says: December 4, 2011 at 7:11 pm Lammergeier is a widespread altitudinal migrant in Nepal. It has been assessed as Vulnerable under the criteria A2a,C2a(i),D1 in The State of Nepal’s Birds 2010 published by Bird Conservation Nepal and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Kathmandu. The species has not yet been re-assessed for the Nepal Red Data Book which is currently being researched and written (to be published by the Zoological Society of London). Massive declines of Lammergeier have been recorded in upper Mustang recently.

The numbers of the species recorded per day and per kilometre decreased by 73% and 80% respectively between 2002 and 2008. Although the cause is unknown, diclofenac is suspected because the species’s range overlaps with that of other vulture species known to be affected (Acharya et al. 2010). Reference: Acharya, (Sharma) R., Cuthbert, R., Baral, H. S. and Chaudhary, A. (2010) Rapid decline of the Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus in Upper Mustang, Nepal. Forktail.26:117-120. December 9, 2011 at 4:17 pm Although negligible from Global point of view, the Lammergeier was still present in FYR of Macedonia – Greek and Bulgarian – Greek border areas until the first few years of XXI century. Specially directed surveys conducted at that time showed presnece of 2 to 5 individuals. Observations of juvenile and immature birds gave a reason to suggest possible breeding of 1-2 pairs.

Despite the general increase of conservation actions for the vultures (establishment of the Balkan Vulture Action Plan) and involvement of a number of conservation groups in conservation of the vultures in the region, there is no even a single observation of the species in the last 5 years. December 9, 2011 at 8:21 pm Ethiopia is the African country holding the largest Beaded Vulture population. I gained some impressions on the species during two expeditions in the country, aimed particularly at the Egyptian Vulture in 2009-2010. To my understanding at present the Bearded Vulture population could be numbering probably a few hundred pairs, but not thousands, as mentioned in previous estimate. New emerging threats are facing the vultures throughout the country – at one hand the very dangerous type power lines are constantly growing in length throughout the highlands, while on the other it seems that the use of poisons against dogs at municipal rubbish dumps (favored by the species in Ethiopia) could be another major unknown problem. We found evidence for use of poisons at least in Awassa, Negele and possibly Addis Ababa.

Probably hundreds of Hooded Vultures died in Negele in a poisoning incident, when also more than 300 stray dogs were poisoned in a single night and day. Ash & Atkins in “Birds of Ethiopia and Eritrea” also give evidence for decrease: “A decrease in their numbers was first noted in 1973-1977, when 64 were counted, compared with 102 in the previous three years. By 1997 on a journey by the authors of 8758 kms in 45 days through Ethiopia only one, possibly two Lammergeiers were seen in the many areas where previously they had been frequent.” February 4, 2012 at 5:49 am Two distinct subspecies of Gypaetus barbatus are recognized (Mundy et al. 1992). G. b. barbatus north of the Tropic of Cancer and G. b. meridionalis south of Tropic of Cancer. Consideration should be given to separating the threat listings for these subspecies. The southern African population is geographically isolated.

It is currently listed as endangered although this may be upgraded to critically endangered with the current regional review. The population has suffered a major decline in its historic distribution range and population numbers continue to decline. A recent review of the breeding range and status of the species indicates that the breeding range of the Bearded Vulture in southern Africa has declined by about 25% in the past 30 years. The current breeding range is estimated at 26 250 km². The population size is estimated at 100 breeding pairs, which is half the number estimated by Brown (1990) 30 years ago. The two major threats to the population, namely poisoning and collisions with energy structures, have not yet been addressed. Joe Taylor June 14, 2013 at 12:23 pm The following post was sent by Cassandra Rodenbaugh via the Suggestions for new topics thread on 3 June 2013: The sole member of the genus Gypaetus is the Bearded Vulture, also known as the Lammergeier or Lammergeyer. It has been been declared extinct in several countries such as Romania (where it was exterminated in 1935).

There was a reintroduction project in the Alps between 1986-1997 but it is difficult to find any other information on ongoing research projects or conservation groups. I am looking for any ongoing projects involving Lammergeiers. July 16, 2013 at 5:57 am In the Indian trans-Himalaya where we work (Ladakh and Spiti), the Lammergeier is not uncommon. In fact, in Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh state, it is common near villages. Though we do not have estimates of abundance, I do keep hearing from local field staff about the reduction that they claim has been witnessed in its population. It shares much of its habitat (and food) with Himalayan Griffon vulture, Eurasian Griffon vulture, Golden Eagle and increasingly with feral dogs – which are turning into an emerging threat for wildlife across the Indian trans-Himalaya. There’s hardly any research or even short-term study on the species in the region. Hence, I would like to consider this species worth placing under watch.

Though the status may be ‘near threatened’ in some parts of its range, its vulnerability as a large raptor and disappearance from parts of its former range should warrant a consideration in the change in its status as ‘vulnerable’. July 16, 2013 at 11:49 am While count information is not available for Bhutan on this species, I would suggest that the species be put in the higher category of the IUCN Redlist. It is quite rare in Bhutan and found only in the alpine areas (above 4000 meters, and in winter rarely seen around 3000 meters). In 2008, during a month long bird diversity survey in the Wangchuck Centennial Park, the largest park in Bhutan, I hardly came across 5 individuals. I would suspect that the species breeds in Bhutan. Simon Thomsett July 23, 2013 at 11:30 am Sonja Kruger and Ivaylo Angelov draw attention to the African G. b. meridionalis with the Sonja stating that the isolated south African group is Endangered and asked that distinction should be made between the two races.

In Kenya it is surely Critically Endangered, In Ethiopia Vulnerable if Ivaylo and Ash are followed. The Uganda population Critically Endangered and the Tz pop, on the basis of its very low numbers Endangered. Richard Porter August 2, 2013 at 9:00 am Little to add. In Yemen breeding population appears to be much reduced over past 35 years, but recent data poor. In Iraq it is resident in the norther Kurdistan mountains. No population attempts have been made but my ‘best guess’ is that <20 pairs would not be unreasonable. August 19, 2013 at 9:06 am LAMMERGEIER Lammergeier has been assessed as VU based on the criteria A2ae?, C2a(i) and D1 in a draft species account prepared for the Nepal bird Red Data Book. This draft assessment was upheld at the October 2012 workshop held to discuss over 240 draft Nepal species accounts.

The following text is extracted from the full Lammergeier species account which is available for download from the front page of Himalayan Nature: A distribution map showing pre- and post-1990 distribution is also available here. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION The species still appears to be widespread. However a 2002-2008 study in upper Mustang, Annapurna Conservation Area, a remote part of the Himalayas, which had previously been a stronghold of the species, found a sharp and substantial decline. Lammergeier was surveyed along four predetermined walked transects totaling 188 km in length in upper Mustang in 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2008. The numbers of Lammergeier recorded per day and per kilometre decreased by 73% and 80% respectively between 2002 and 2008 (Acharya et al. 2010). However, surveys carried out between 2002 and 2006 in lower Mustang did not find any evidence of a decline (Giri 2013).

Further monitoring is urgently needed to find out if declines are found in any other areas of Nepal, if the species’ distribution has been affected and to understand the cause of the decline. Its Nepal population has been estimated to be less than 500 birds. THREATS Although the cause of Lammergeier’s decline in upper Mustang is unknown, secondary poisoning by diclofenac is suspected because the species’ range overlaps with that of other vulture species known to be affected (Acharya et al. 2010). Veterinary pharmaceutical medicines are commonly available in Mustang District. One of them is diclofenac, but some other NSAIDs are also harmful to vultures. Himalayan Vulture and Lammergeier were found to sharing habitat and roosting sites in China. Sharing of roosting sites by these two species outside the study area was observed in Nepal (Acharya et al. 2010). Lammergeiers are primarily bone-eaters, but with the collapse of the resident Himalayan Vulture Gyps himalayensis from the same area (Acharya et al.

2009) it is possible that Lammergeiers are now able to access and feed on soft tissues from which they previously would have been excluded. It is not known if diclofenac residues remain within bones of treated animals, although residues are known to be passed into feathers and hair. Although the Lammergeier is mainly a resident and non-migratory species, it has been observed flying with other vulture species near the carcass of an Ox Bos indicus at 1100 m in Kaski District (Acharya et al. 2010). In addition to this it has also been observed as low as 305 m at Mugling. The movements of Lammergeier depend on food availability and they live in close proximity with lowland vultures when sharing food with them; hence diclofenac could be one of the reasons for the decline (Acharya et al. 2010). Diclofenac was still being widely used in upper Mustang in February 2012 (R. Acharya in litt. to C Inskipp February 2012).

Along with diclofenac, other toxic substances (fungicides, herbicides and pesticides) could have similar or compounding effects on the decline of the Lammergeier in the area. It has already been observed that poisoning was the principal reason for non-natural mortality of the species in Europe. In addition, virtually all local people within the study area in upper Mustang believe that Lammergeier intestines make an effective treatment for diarrohea and that anyone who takes chicks from the nest of a vulture becomes more prosperous. Such beliefs suggest that exploitation of this bird may still occur in upper Mustang (Acharya et al. 2010). Local people in lower Mustang had the same belief (Giri 2013). CONSERVATION ACTION The Vulture Conservation Action Plan for Nepal (2009-2013) (Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation, Nepal Government 2009) has helped prioritize and streamline vulture conservation activities in Nepal. For example in 2006, a ban was introduced on the production and importation of diclofenac for veterinary use. Pharmaceutical firms are encouraged to promote a safe alternative called meloxicam.

Vulture-Safe Feeding Sites have since been established in a number of locations. The project also promotes local livelihoods activities including bee-keeping and organic farming runs educational events raising awareness of the socio-economic value of vultures and the damage done by diclofenac. Lammergeier has been recorded from all high altitude protected areas post-1990. It is probably under-recorded outside the protected areas’ system as it mainly occurs at high altitudes. REFERENCES Acharya, (Sharma) R., Cuthbert, R., Baral, H. S. and Chaudhary, A. (2010) Rapid decline of the Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus in Upper Mustang, Nepal. Forktail.26:117-120. Acharya, (Sharma) R., Cuthbert, R., Baral, H. S. and Shah, K. B. (2009) Rapid population declines of Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis in Upper Mustang, Nepal. Bird Conservation International 19: 91-107.

DNPWC/MoFSC/GoN (2009) Vulture Conservation Action Plan for Nepal (2009—2013). Kathmandu. Government of Nepal, Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation, Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. Giri, J. B. (2013) Population of Lammergeier Gypaetus barbatus in lower Mustang, Nepal. Ibisbill 2: 121-125. Carol Inskipp and Hem Sagar Baral Kerem Ali Boyla January 14, 2014 at 2:48 am According to the recent estimates Turkey seems to hold the highest population in Europe. BiE 3 estimated 400-700 pairs. I have revised about 200 sighting records and 100 photographic records mostly by Turkish birders and bird photographers and updated the distribution map of the species.

I can say that it is not continuous (anymore) but forms four packs being NW Turkey (mostly Kastamonu, Bolu, Ankara, Eskişehir, Bursa, Bilecik, Kütahya, Denizli, Afyon), Central Taurus Mountains (mostly Niğde, Adana, Mersin), NE Turkey (the rectangle between Ağrı, Tunceli, Giresun and Artvin) and SE Turkey (Şırnak, Van and Hakkari). See map here: The extent of occurrence of those four packs are 70k, 20k, 70k and 20k km2 respectively. And my wild estimates are also as 50 pairs, 10 pairs, 80 pairs and 20 pairs totaling 160 pairs, in maximum. One obvious example for the change of the distribution range is the following. The species is now extremely rare in the provinces Muğla (f.e. Dalyan area) and Antalya, where there is a presence of birders.

When I compare sightings and photographic sightings among species, I can see that Cinereous Vulture is encountered twice as much and of course in higher numbers. Assuming a breeding population of 200 pairs for Cinereous Vulture, this can give an idea of the ecological conditions of such species and that we cannot expect a higher estimate for Lammergeier. There is a need to understand that there is no good data from Turkey and there has never been. Manoj Sharma March 21, 2014 at 5:37 am Lammergeier in Nepal We have recently analysed the population trend in Lammergeier in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal (Paudel et al in review; provided on request). Between 2002 and 2007, LM declined by 87% (Acharya et al. 2010). It has remained stable at this low level up to 2012. Over the ten year period between 2002 and 2012, the population had declined by 83%. General observations from biologists and birdwatchers suggest this species to be declining.

We do not know if this species is intolerant to diclofenac, but its decline is similar in magnitude and timing of those in vultures that are intolerant to diclofenac. Since the 2006 ban on diclofenac, its use has decreased markedly throughout Nepal (BCN unpublished data), but unlike the Himalayan Griffon, which shares Upper Mustang and has shown a partial recovery, the Lammergeier continues to decline. We think that this is because the Lammergeier suffers the additional and specific threat of nestling collection (nestlings are seen as a good omen), nest destruction (this species uses rope and fabric in its nest, which people take back) and hunting (this species intestines are used in traditional medicine). The population size of Lammergeier in Nepal is small – less than 500 individuals estimated in 2010 – and therefore the species is considered Vulnerable (State of Nepal’s Birds 2010). It is likely that the overall Lammergeier population in Nepal would have decreased by more than 80% in the past decade and that it will remain low for three generations (c.53 years).

For these reasons, we will suggest that the Lammergeier be up-listed to Critically Endangered next time the threatened status of animals in Nepal is reviewed. References Acharya, R., Cuthbert, R., Baral, H.S., Chaudhary, A. (2010). Rapid decline of the Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus in Upper Mustang, Nepal. Forktail, 26: 117-120. BCN and DNPWC, 2011. The state of nepal’s birds 2010. Bird Conservation Nepal and Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Kathmandu. Paudel, K., Galligan, T., Amano, T., Acharya, R., Chaudhary, A., Baral, H.S., Bhusal, K.B., Green, R., Cuthbert, R., (in review) Population trends in Himalayan Griffon and Lammergeier in Upper Mustang, Nepal, before and after the ban on diclofenac. Thank you.

Khadananda Paudel and Toby Galligan Andy Symes April 16, 2014 at 3:50 pm Recommended categorisation to be put forward to IUCN Following further review, there has been no change to our preliminary proposal for the 2014 Red List status of this species. The final categorisation will be published later in 2014, following further checking of information relevant to the assessment by BirdLife and IUCN. vulture - Dictionary Definition : Vocabulary.com Random Word vulture A vulture is a type of bird — with a bald head and neck — that feeds on dead animals. One of the most fearsome birds is the vulture: this bird of prey feeds on almost nothing but dead flesh. Unlike other animals that hunt, vultures go after animals that were killed by other animals or died naturally. Vultures are scavengers looking for corpses. And because of their morbid tastes, vultures are often associated with horror movies and scenes of carnage.

Lammergeyers in Spain A-Z birds in Spain Lammergeyers or quebrantahuesos (bone breakers) as they are known in Spanish are the largest bird of prey in Eurasia, and Europe's rarest vulture, around 70% of which live in the Aragonese Pyrenees. They feed on marrow which they get by dropping bones repeatedly onto rocks, as their Spanish name aptly suggests. Their old name in English of ossifrage also refers to this habit. They are also known in English as bearded vultures. This is in reference to the ochre ruff of quills they sport around their necks. They are not born this way, but acquire the colour by actively seeking out iron-rich muds and rubbing their feathers in them. The theory goes that in a stand-off, the redder the feather, the tougher the lammergeyer. There are some 80 odd pairs in the Pyrenees, 70% of which are in Aragon, which is home to the biggest population in Europe.

The number of breeding units (pairs, trios and even foursomes) has risen from some 40 in 1988 to around 80 in 2004. Although this is clearly optimistic, the Pyrenean population has a low genetic diversity . The most serious problem for the bird is poisoning. 42% of unnatural deaths of lammergeyers (20 recorded since 1990) are from poisoned meat put out principally, these days, to kill foxes. The lammergeyer population was decimated in the 20th century by poisoning, much of it due to the mistaken and incredibly widespread belief that they would take young lambs. Lammergeier or Lammergeyer (both correct) comes from the German, lämmergeier, meaning "lamb-vulture", presumably for the same reason. The bird appears to back from the brink. It is breaking out of its last stronghold in the Aragonese Pyrenees and has been sited in the the Picos de Europa and the Sistema Central after a 50 year absence.

However, studies on the way lammergeyers colonise new areas show that under natural conditions the species would need at least 150 (one hundred and fifty) years to completely re-colonise the Cordillera Cantábrica, the Sistema Ibérico and the Montes Vascos. Therefore, much of the conservation work on lammergeyers is centred on aiding thier expansion. One imaginative scheme in the Picos de Europa involves building lammergeyer-friendly nests which they can take over, and constructing life-size models of the birds to lure them to cliffs. This seems to have been successful. A pair of lammergeyers appear to have established themsleves in the Cantabrian Picos de Europa in Liébana fifty years after the species disappeared from these mountains. According to Geraldo Báguena of the Fundación para la Conservación del Quebrantahuesos (FCQ), two ADULT individuals have been spotted together at different points in the national park over the last month, which may well mean they have moved in permenantly.

They are thought to be a male and female, as two birds of the same sex would be unlikey to tolerate each other for so long, although this is not confirmed. Young lammergeyers are sporadically spotted in the Picos, with 38 sightings in the last three years, but this is the first time that adult birds have decided to stay. The birds have been spotted right next to life-size models of lammergeyers installed by FCQ precisely to attract the birds. It appears that they have been successful. This is a great encouragement for the reintroduction plan which aims to release birds here in 2007, as the sites chosen (feeding stations/life-size models) are being frequented by the couple. Birds are being raised from inviable eggs collected in the Pyrenees. See first hacked lammergeyers to be released in Picos de Europa in 2007. La primera suelta de quebrantahuesos en los Picos se llevará a cabo en 2007 (Comercio Digital) A recolonsiation programme is also taking place in Andalusia at the Sierra de Cazorla where the bird was last seen in 1986.

The first release in Andalusia is set for 2005 from birds from the Guadalentín centre in Cazorla National Park. The centre currently has 24 lammergeyers, including two breeding pairs and three more who have begun nest building. The female lammergeyer lays one egg, and then a few days later, lays another. The second chick plays the role of a substitute if the first egg fails to hatch. In most cases, the second chick dies, despite the efforts of its parents to feed it: the older sibling is stronger and takes its food. And then, when the right moment arrives it will kill its sister or brother. This is known by biologists as Cainism.. Taking advantage of this, Spanish researchers are to begin an experiment in 2005. The idea is to save some second chicks just after they hatch to create a genetic reserve for future reintroductions and to safeguard against the lammergeyer becoming extinct in the wild. This will be the first time this has been tried with the lammergeyer though the technique has been successful with other birds.

Lammergeyer in legend An old legend tells that many years ago in the mountains here there was bird capable of plucking lambs from their flocks, and lifting them hundreds of metres up in the air, before dashing them on the rocks below. The bird would then swoop down and feast on their still-warm entrails. Herein the German Lammergeyer - lamb vulture. Some said they had seen these massive birds do the same with young children. Others still, claimed they were partial to the adult human flesh of climbers, who when out looking for eggs on the crags, would be knocked off by these birds and fall to their deaths. Old wives' tales. Lammergeyers only eat carrion. Another legend asserts that the Greek playwright Aeschylus was killed by a tortoise dropped on his bald head by a Lammergeyer which mistook it for a stone. Gypaetus barbatus - Quebrantahuesos (Sp), Trencalòs (Cat), Ugatza (Basque), Clunchigüesos (Aragonese, great word and utterly useless) The ever strange Bible specifically prohibits their eating.

And these you shall not eat are: the nesher (Griffon vulture), and the peres (lammergeier) and the 'ozniyah (lappet faced vulture). And the ra-ah(??) ayah (honey buzzard)and the dayah(kite) species. And all of the 'orev (raven/crow) species. And the bat haya'anah(ostrich) and the tahmas(??) and the shahaf (seagull) and the netz(hawk) species. And the kos (little owl) and the yanshuf (long-eared owl) and the tinshemet (barn owl). And the ka-at(a kind of desert bird?) and the rahma (Egyptian vulture) and the shlakh (osprey). And the hasida (stork) and the anafa (heron) species and the dukhifat (hoopoe) and the bat ."(Deuteronomy 14:12-19). From this site . What does lammergeier mean?

definition and meaning (Free English Language Dictionary) Hypernyms ("lammergeier" is a kind of...): Old World vulture (any of several large vultures of Africa and Eurasia) Learn English with... Proverbs of the week "If it jams, force it. If it breaks, it probably needed fixing anyway." (English proverb) "Feed the goat to fill the pot." (Albanian proverb) "If you wish, ask for more." (Arabic proverb) "Flatter the mother to get the girl." (Corsican proverb) Page delivered in 0.039 seconds AudioEnglish Definitions... Just One Click Away! Now you can lookup any word in our dictionary, right from the search box in your browser! Click here to add the AudioEnglish.org dictionary to your list of search providers.

Question: What kind of bird is a Lammergeyer?
Answer: Vulture