Cinereous Vulture

The Cinereous Vulture, Aegypius monachus, is a formidable raptor and the largest member of the Accipitridae family. It is also known by other names such as the Black Vulture, Monk Vulture, and Eurasian Black Vulture. This bird is characterized by its impressive wingspan of up to 3.1 meters and a body length reaching 1.2 meters. Weighing as much as 14 kilograms, it is considered one of the heaviest flying birds in the world.

Identification Tips

Adult Cinereous Vultures are predominantly dark brown, with a pale, bare head and neck that give them a striking appearance. Their eyes are brown, and the bill is blue-gray, complemented by pale blue-gray legs. Juveniles are sepia-brown above with a paler underside and grey down on the head. The species is distinguished by its massive bill, one of the largest among accipitrids, and its broad wings with serrated leading edges, which are held straight or slightly arched during flight.

Habitat

The Cinereous Vulture favors hilly and mountainous regions, thriving in dry semi-open habitats such as high-altitude meadows. They nest near the tree line and are associated with undisturbed areas with minimal human activity.

Distribution

This vulture's range spans across temperate Eurasia, from Spain and Portugal in the west, through parts of Europe and the Middle East, to northern India and central Asia in the east. Its distribution is fragmented, particularly in Europe.

Behaviour

Cinereous Vultures are mostly solitary, often seen alone or in pairs. They may gather in small groups at large carcasses, but such congregations are rare. They exhibit a variety of flight displays, particularly during the breeding season.

Song & Calls

This species is generally silent, with occasional guttural cries heard only between adults and their offspring at the nest.

Breeding

Cinereous Vultures breed in loose colonies, with nests typically found in large trees or on cliff ledges. They lay a single egg, which is incubated for about 50 to 62 days. Both parents are involved in rearing the young, which fledge after several months.

Similar Species

The Lappet-faced Vulture is the most similar in shape but can be distinguished by its bare, pinkish head and contrasting plumage.

Diet and Feeding

As scavengers, Cinereous Vultures feed on carrion of various types, from large mammals to fish and reptiles. They are equipped to tear open tough skins and even break bones to access the flesh of their meals.

Conservation Status

The Cinereous Vulture is currently listed as Near Threatened due to declines caused by poisoning, habitat destruction, and reduced availability of carrion. Conservation efforts have led to local population recoveries in some areas.