The griffon vulture has very distinctive colors when flying. Most of the body and wings are very pale, grey or tan, with a thick black trailing edge on the wings and tail, and a white head. When flying, the long vulture-neck is retracted, and the bird's outline is quite eagle-like, with the distinctive white head seemingly very short. It's the only large vulture with the pale coloring and the dark wing edges.
The wings are very broad and the feathers curve upwards at the ends while soaring. The tail is short and also very broad.
Usually seen soaring at a considerable height. More common to Spain than Provence, but in May of 2003 we saw a group of 15 to 20 of them in the Alpes-Maritimes, soaring above the hills near Saint Vallier-de-Thiey, north of Grasse [map]. The most majestic bird sighting we've ever had, we watched them for a half-hour before they drifted off to the north and finally out of sight.
The head and neck are covered with white down, and it has a creamy-white ruff at the base of the neck; not obvious in the field.
Habitiat
Rocky mountainous country, breeding on cliff ledges, roosting on rocks or crags.
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Photo gallery of One large photo for Griffon Vulture
