Griffon vulture
The griffon vulture is the most represented vulture in Lozère and the least fearful, it is therefore quite easy to observe it near the cliffs and rocky circus of the Tarn and Jonte river Canyons. Its very short tail distinguishes it from the golden eagle, also present on the territory and which benefits from joint flights. Vultures are monogamous animals, that is, they are loyal to the same partner lifelong.
In the area where they nest, food resources are abundant and allow them to have a very satisfactory reproduction rate to maintain and increase the population. Biologists claim that this result shows the well-being of griffon vultures to live in the Tarn and Jonte river Canyons. We are far from overcrowding, so the environment’s welcoming potential on the rock walls and cliffs encourage them to occupy a very large space, which plays in their good development and the cohabitation between them. These birds live in groups, with couples each having their own nest. They are adults as of the age of 4 and can then gain autonomy. In search for food, griffon vultures always move in groups and find themselves on carcasses to eat together, an action that is called the frenzy. This species consumes soft tissue, muscles and viscera. Other species will take care of the rest later on.
- Wingspan: 2.40 to 2.70m
- Weight: 7 to 11kg
- Plumage: beige, brown and black gradient at the tips
