The Cinereous Vulture
Key facts and figures
- Homepage
- Pages
- LIFE Aegypius Return
- The Cinereous Vulture
- Key facts and figures
Key facts and figures
The Cinereous Vulture (Aegypius monachus), also called the Eurasian Black Vulture, is a true giant of the skies. Renowned for its impressive size, it holds the title for the largest Old World vulture and one of the biggest and heaviest birds of prey globally, with an astonishing wingspan stretching 3 meters. It’s a true wonder of nature!

Status Worldwide
Near Threatened (population decreasing)

Status in Portugal
Critically Endangered

Status in Spain
Vulnerable
Scientific Name
Aegypius monachus
Weight
6.3-11.5 kg
Length
98-120cm
Wingspan
2.5-3.1m
Diet
Animal carcasses (medium-sized or large mammal carcasses such as rabbits, wild and domestic herbivores)
Habitats
Forested areas in hills and mountains
Lifespan
A long-lived bird, living for approximately 20 years in the wild and up to 35 in captivity
Breeding behaviour
Forms monogamous pairings, reaches sexual maturity at 5-6 years old and lays only one egg per breeding season
Features and appearance
Distribution and habitat
Behaviour and diet
