What is a Bearded Vulture? 'Unique Alpine Birds of Prey'
Bearded Vulture Flying.
“FIERCEST FLYING CARNIVORES ON EARTH”
The bearded vulture is known to be one of the fiercest flying carnivores on Earth. This animal is extremely intense, incredibly beautiful and strong, making it an interesting addition to our blog series ‘Alpine Animals’. The series is made to commemorate the unique and magnificent animals that call the Apennines their home. Our hotel in the Alps, Albergo Miramonti, is located in a valley beside the mountains. Being based near the mountains, have made us fascinated by the abundance of unique flora and fauna that prosper in higher altitudes.
Bearded Vulture with an orange-hued chest, due to the ferrous oxide found in mud baths.
“BONE-EATERS”
The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) is recognised to be one of the traditional ‘old world’ vultures, closely related to the Egyptian vulture. You can find them high mountainous areas all over the world, including the Italian Alps. The creature itself is considered unusual, even among other ‘old world’ vulture species, it is one of the only animals that consume 70%-90% bones for their diet!
The bird - appearance-wise - is extraordinarily unique. Compared to other species of vulture, it boasts features that make it easily identifiable. Look out for the red sclera in their eyes; it’s feather covered-head and, of course, the hair-like beard beneath its beak (it’s called a bearded vulture for a reason!). One additional feature that sets them apart is their orange-hued chests that are the result of ferrous oxide from mud-baths. Yes, these beards of prey like to take baths in the mud! Why do you ask? Scientists speculate it could be for parasite prevention or even camouflage. Regardless of any explanation, you can’t deny it makes them look fantastic.
A vulture by the side of the cliff, with its red scleras making a bold statement.
“NEAR-ENDANGERMENT”
The bearded vulture is considered to be of ‘Near-Endangerment’. In the past, it was feared that the vultures attacked lambs and even children - therefore - they were then hunted and eradicated in the Alps.
However, there have been various schemes to repopulate the birds into the Apennines. It was successful as many bearded vultures have been spotted across the mountain range particularly in higher altitudes above the tree line. The current threats to the species include lack of food, habitat destruction and even cable lines.
Why not stay at Miramonti Boutique Hotel? We are located within the Alps, with a Hotel Spa, relaxing Cigar Lounge and an Italian Restaurant that serves local Valtellina Cuisine.
For more articles about the Italian Alps and Northern Italy, read the blog: