7 Facts About the Bone-Eater Bird: The Bearded Vulture

Diet Primarily Composed of Bones

The Bearded Vulture is one of the few birds in the world that primarily feeds on bones, consuming up to 90% of its diet as bone matter.

Acidic Stomach to Digest Bones

It has a highly acidic stomach that allows it to digest large bones within 24 hours, extracting nutrients from bone marrow.

Unique Feeding Strategy

When large bones are too big to swallow, the Bearded Vulture will drop them from great heights onto rocks to break them into smaller, digestible pieces.

Distinctive Appearance

This vulture is notable for its striking appearance, with a fluffy white beard, bright orange or red feathers (due to dust-bathing in iron-rich soils), and a wingspan of up to 2.8 meters (9 feet).

Conservation Status

The Bearded Vulture is listed as Near Threatened, with habitat degradation, poisoning, and human disturbances posing significant threats to its population.

Wide Range but Fragmented Population

It is found across a broad range from the mountains of Europe, Asia, and Africa, though its population is fragmented and declining in many areas.

Cultural Significance and Misconceptions

Historically, the Bearded Vulture has been subject to persecution due to misconceptions and superstitions, including the unfounded belief that it posed a threat to livestock and humans.

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