Griffon vulture

The griffon vulture, also known as the Eurasian griffon, is an imposing bird from the Accipitridae family. Although distinct from Rüppell's vulture, it shares a close relationship with the white-backed vulture. These majestic birds boast a wingspan of 2.3–2.8 meters and typically weigh between 6.2 and 10.5 kilograms, with both males and females falling within this range. As scavengers, griffon vultures feed on the carcasses of dead animals, which they locate by soaring over open landscapes.

Griffon vultures prefer to nest on cliffs, where they lay a single egg. They often form loose colonies during the breeding season and can be found in southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Thanks to conservation efforts and hunting bans, some populations are even showing signs of recovery.

In Europe and Asia, griffon vultures have been spotted in numerous countries, including Italy—where reintroduction efforts have been successful—as well as Croatia, the British Isles, Cyprus, Israel, Greece, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Serbia, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, Armenia, and Russia. However, despite these efforts, the population has faced setbacks due to poisoning from bait left out by humans.

Scientists have extensively studied griffon vultures, particularly their physiology. These birds are exceptional flyers, using soaring techniques to conserve energy. They also have a unique way of managing body temperature with their bald heads, enabling them to handle extreme conditions without needing to find shelter. Studies on intraspecific competition have shown that older vultures tend to be more aggressive and dominant, especially when food is scarce.

The griffon vulture is not only a fascinating bird but also a crucial part of the ecosystem, serving as nature's cleanup crew. However, they face significant threats such as poisoning and habitat loss. Continued conservation efforts are essential to ensure their survival and maintain the balance in their natural habitats.