This vulture is a majestic and sociable bird of prey that inhabits a vast range extending from Europe to Asia. They are renowned for their gregarious nature and can often be observed congregating in large groups, particularly around carcasses where they gather to feed and socialize.
Unlike some other scavengers, Eurasian griffons are not migratory birds. While older individuals tend to establish relatively sedentary territories, younger birds, especially immature ones, exhibit a penchant for exploration and may undertake extensive journeys in search of food and suitable habitat. This behavior helps to disperse the population and maintain genetic diversity within the species.
Despite their large size and formidable appearance, Eurasian griffons rely primarily on their keen eyesight rather than their sense of smell when foraging for food. They are adept at spotting carrion from great distances and often engage in a behavior known as “following the leader,” where they trail behind other scavengers, such as other vultures or predatory birds, to locate potential food sources.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Eurasian griffon behavior is their hierarchical social structure, particularly evident during feeding events at carcasses. Dominant individuals, often older relatives or more experienced birds, assert their authority and are given priority access to the choicest portions of the carcass. This hierarchy helps to minimize conflict and ensure efficient resource utilization within the group.
With their long necks and powerful beaks, Eurasian griffons are well-equipped for accessing the soft tissues of carcasses, including muscle and internal organs. As they feed, the blood from the carcass may stain their brown heads red, creating a striking and somewhat eerie visual spectacle that underscores the intensity of their feeding behavior.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bangladesh
Belarus
Belgium
Bhutan
Bosnia And Herz.
Bulgaria
China
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Djibouti
Egypt
Eritrea
Estonia
Ethiopia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Gibraltar
Greece
Hungary
India
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Latvia
Lebanon
Libya
Mali
Malta
Mauritania
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Nepal
Netherlands
Niger
North Macedonia
Oman
Pakistan
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Official estimate
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sudan
Switzerland
Syria
Tajikistan
Togo
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
UAE
Ukraine
Uzbekistan
YemenAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
