Griffon vulture
Gyps fulvus
Gyps fulvus, commonly known as the Griffon Vulture, is a majestic bird of prey belonging to the Aves class. Known locally in the Comunidad Valenciana as the Buitre Leonado, this magnificent creature is an integral part of the region's natural heritage.
The Griffon Vulture stands out due to its impressive size. Here are some distinctive features:
- Adults have a wingspan ranging from 2.4 to 2.8 meters.
- Their bodies are robust with a length of about 95 to 110 cm.
- Covered in tawny plumage with paler underparts, they possess dark flight feathers.
- They are equipped with a powerful, hooked beak designed for tearing meat.
- A unique characteristic is their long neck, covered with a downy white ruff.
The Griffon Vulture plays a crucial ecological role as a scavenger. By feeding on carrion, they help in natural waste disposal and disease control, maintaining the balance in their habitat.
In the Comunidad Valenciana, these vultures primarily inhabit mountainous and rocky areas, where they build their nests on inaccessible cliffs. Through careful conservation measures, populations of the Buitre Leonado are being monitored and protected, ensuring that they remain a prominent sight in the skies of this beautiful region.