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Thursday, 11 September 2025

15-8-2018 MORO DE ROBIERES, TERUEL - EGYPTIAN VULTURE (Neophron percnopterus)


The Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus), known colloquially as the white scavenger vulture or pharaoh's chicken, is a small member of the Old World vulture family. This bird is the sole representative of the genus Neophron. It is characterized by a white plumage with black flight feathers, a wedge-shaped tail, and a slender, hooked bill. The facial skin is a vivid yellow, adding a splash of color to its otherwise monochrome appearance.

In flight, the Egyptian vulture is easily recognized by its contrasting underwing pattern and distinctive tail shape. Adults have a white body with black flight feathers, while juveniles are darker with a mottled pattern. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly larger and heavier than males.

These vultures are found in a variety of habitats, ranging from arid plains to lower hills and even urban areas where they may nest on tall buildings. They are also known to inhabit cliffs and large trees.

The Egyptian vulture has a broad distribution, spanning the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa, West Asia, and India. Some populations are migratory, particularly those breeding in temperate regions, which travel south during winter.