Egyptian Vulture
Neophron percnopterus
The Egyptian Vulture is a rare and occasional visitor to Britain, typically seen in the southern regions during the summer months, although sightings are extremely uncommon. It is more commonly found in the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa, and West Asia, where it can be seen soaring in thermals during the warmer parts of the day.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Egyptian Vulture in the field.
The Egyptian Vulture can be identified by its contrasting underwing pattern, wedge-shaped tail, and small size, making it distinctive in flight. Its white and dark brown plumage also sets it apart from other vulture species.
The Egyptian Vulture is smaller than a Buzzard, with a more compact build, making it a relatively small bird of prey.
The male Egyptian Vulture has a white plumage with dark brown flight feathers and tail, with a yellow beak and legs, although the plumage can appear worn and faded in older birds.
Similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage, although females may appear slightly larger.
The Egyptian Vulture has a loud, shrill call, often described as a screeching or squealing sound, which is typically used for communication and contact.
Egyptian Vultures are opportunistic feeders, preying on carrion, small mammals, birds, and reptiles, as well as breaking open eggs by tossing pebbles at them, and can be seen soaring and gliding in thermals with a slow and deliberate wingbeat.
The Egyptian Vulture can be confused with other small to medium-sized birds of prey, such as the Red Kite or the Montagu's Harrier, but its distinctive underwing pattern, wedge-shaped tail, and white plumage with dark brown flight feathers make it identifiable, and its rare occurrence in Britain means that any sighting should be carefully verified.
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