Vulture bird definition. any of various very large diurnal birds of prey of the genera Neophron, Gyps, Gypaetus, etc, of Africa, Asia,. As a key part of nature’s cleanup crew, vultures play a crucial role in preserving the balance of our […] Dec 5, 2024 · The Sacred Vulture: Death and Rebirth in Ancient Myths Introduction: The Significance of the Vulture in Ancient Cultures The vulture, often misunderstood in contemporary society, has held a significant place in various ancient cultures. They all belong to the Oct 18, 2025 · Lammergeier, large eaglelike vulture of the Old World (family Accipitridae), frequently over 1 meter (40 inches) long, with a wingspread of nearly 3 meters (10 feet). This bird scavenges on carrion. Brainy birds: Vultures are intelligent birds, with at least one species, the Egyptian Vulture, even capable of using tools. How to use vulture in a sentence. Other Old World vultures include the griffon vulture and Egyptian vulture. VULTURE meaning: 1. Synonyms for vulture include buzzard, condor, bird of prey, scavenger bird, carrion scavenger, predator, shark, wolf, vampire and kite. What does vulture mean? Meaning of vulture. They defecate on their legs to keep cool, a behavior called urohidrosis. Yet no standard definition for the synonymous terms “raptor” or “bird of prey” exists. There are two main groups; Old World and New World vultures, known for feeding almost exclusively on animal carcasses. vulture - traduction anglais-français. Kettle (birds) A kettle of Turkey vultures circle their prey over the Mojave Desert A kettle is a group of birds wheeling and circling in the air. There are six meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun vulture. spotted hyenas, wild boars), reptiles (e. Vultures are known as large scavenging birds found on all continents except for Australia and Antarctica. Vulture defined and explained with descriptions. Spanish and Chinese language support available vulture meaning: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. Vultures are often misunderstood and overlooked in discussions about wildlife and conservation. Find more similar words at wordhippo. Pronunciation (Brit. Easy Science for Kids Vultures - Nature’s Garbage Men - learn fun facts about animals, the human body, our planet and much more. Sep 2, 2022 · Why we need to protect vultures and how a bird like vulture is important for our ecosystem? More in the article!. vulture synonyms, pronunciation, spelling and more from Free Dictionary. residents are most likely to spot two: the black vulture and the turkey vulture (the latter is the most widely distributed species in North and South America). This article provides info about Vulture. Falconiform, (order Falconiformes), any of the group of swift, graceful birds known for their predatory skill as raptors. Jul 3, 2024 · A vulture is a unique bird known as a bird of prey. vulture species, things can get a little confusing. Species found in the Americas are in the family Cathartidae, and those found in Eurasia and Africa are in the family Accipitridae. Definition, Characteristics, and Habitat of the Griffon Vulture Definition The griffon vulture (scientific name: Gyps fulvus) is a large bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. AI generated definition based on: Performance Enhancement and Control of Photovoltaic Systems, 2024 Vultures are large birds of prey; however, they rarely hunt for live animals, preferring to eat carrion (dead flesh) and garbage. This article will explore the characteristics, species, and fascinating facts about vultures, shedding light on their importance in ecosystems and the conservation Sep 21, 2025 · Explore the differences between vultures and ravens, including their definitions, etymologies, symbolisms, and usage in literature and culture. He placed all birds of prey into a single order, Accipitres, subdividing this into four genera: Vultur (vultures), Falco (eagles, hawks, falcons, etc. Aug 3, 2025 · Vultures and condors are scavengers that are often included with other types of raptors or birds of prey despite not traditionally hunting their food. Discover why these birds have intrigued humans throughout history. An immature Turkey Vulture’s head is dark gray. Unlike most bird species, Turkey Vultures rely on their sense of smell to find prey. vulture (English) Origin & history From Anglo-Norman vultur, from Old French voutoir, voutre, from Latin vultur, voltur. net dictionary. vulture, A bare-headed, keen-sighted bird of prey in any of 22 species found mainly in warm regions. Unfortunately, roughly half the world's 23 vulture species Vulture Facts Main Characteristics Vultures are large birds of prey. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. by Larry Pynn December 10, 2019 | 2,400 words, about 12 minutes This article is also available in audio format. a large bird with almost no feathers on its head or neck, that eats the flesh of dead animals 2…. Known for its impressive wingspan and prominent flight silhouette, it primarily feeds on carrion, making it a crucial scavenger in its ecosystem. S. A vulture is a bird of prey that scavenges on carrion. vulture synonyms, vulture pronunciation, vulture translation, English dictionary definition of vulture. These birds will rarely attack healthy animals and other creatures, although they’ll attack the sick and the weak. Vultures are sociable birds and are mostly seen as a collective unit. Get inspired by this bird’s intelligence and patience. Definition of vulture. AI generated definition based on: Osteoarchaeology, 2017 The Eurasian griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) is a large Old World vulture in the bird of prey family Accipitridae. " But did you know that vultures serve a very important purpose in the ecosystem? By swooping in to remove animal remains, these scavenger birds clean up the environment and help prevent diseases from spreading. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Best online English dictionaries for children, with kid-friendly definitions, integrated thesaurus for kids, images, and animations. In India, the catastrophic downfall of vultures is thought to be caused chiefly by a single, widely used veterinary drug, a cattle painkiller called diclofenac. There are 23 extant species of vulture (including condors). The Lappet-faced Vultures are scavenging birds characterized by their bald heads, which help regulate body temperature and protect against bacteria and disease, and exhibit social behaviors such as fighting for food and waiting for dominant individuals to feed first. This approach was followed by subsequent authors such as Gmelin VULTURE meaning: 1 : any one of several large birds that eat dead animals and have a small and featherless head; 2 : a person who tries to take advantage of someone who is in a very bad situation Synonyms for VULTURE: predator, vampire, shark, wolf, buzzard, kite, user, harpy; Antonyms of VULTURE: prey VULTURE meaning: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. It is a powerful scavenger found across parts of Europe and Asia, especially in dry, mountainous or hilly regions. Large folds of skin, called lappets, hang down from its head. A vulture is a type of bird — with a bald head and neck — that feeds on dead animals. Old World vultures (family Accipitridae, related to eagles) include the smallest (20 in. Learn more. It breeds mainly on small cliffs and hilly crags in central India and south India. The kettle may be composed of several different species at the same time. greedily or unscrupulously: That vulture would sell out his best friend. It is about 39 inches (99 centimeters) long. Mar 28, 2025 · Birds of prey are some of nature’s most fascinating creatures, but when it comes to buzzard vs. vulture definition: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. [2] Old World vultures include 16 living species native to Europe, Africa, and Asia; New World vultures are restricted to North and South America and consist of seven species. Jul 31, 2023 · Vulture Symbolism: An Overview Vultures have been a part of human culture for centuries, and their symbolism varies depending on the region and culture. Unlike many raptors that actively hunt, vultures primarily feed on carrion, preventing the spread of disease and accelerating nutrient recycling in ecosystems. This bare skin is thought The meaning of VULTURE is any of various large birds (families Accipitridae and Cathartidae) that are related to the hawks, eagles, and falcons but have weaker claws and the head usually naked and that subsist chiefly or entirely on carrion. 3 meanings: 1. Diurnal birds of prey—hawks, eagles, vultures, and falcons (Falconiformes)—are also called raptors. Dec 10, 2019 · The Vulture Watcher One man’s spirited commitment to an underappreciated bird. The vulture definition: large bird eating dead animals. 3 senses: 1. Within ten Vulture tracks are large and show the classic bird footprint pattern with three toes pointing forward and one back, along with the impression of their large claws. See examples of VULTURE used in a sentence. VULTURE definition: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. They are divided into two groups: New World vultures of the Americas, belonging to the family Cathartidae, and Old World vultures of vulture Definition, Meaning & SynonymsDefinition A large bird of prey that feeds primarily on carrion (dead animals). What does Vulture mean? Information and translations of Vulture in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. So, are vultures and buzzards the same bird? Not exactly! The meaning of vulture. Oct 15, 2025 · Vulture is a large bird of prey that scavenges, soars high, and helps clean the environment. Their use of rocks to crack open ostrich eggs showcases their problem-solving abilities and cognitive sophistication, challenging the misconception that vultures are unintelligent. What could be creepier than a bald bird that feeds on rotting flesh? Seven vulture species populate the Americas. Discover expressions like "turkey Dec 11, 2019 · In practical terms, the definition would exclude most orders of birds and would apply only to these orders: Accipitriformes (hawks, eagles, etc. black hagfish, abyssal grenadiers), mammals (e. Birds any of several superficially similar New World birds of the family Cathartidae, as the turkey vulture. Vultures are scavenging birds that will feed on dead animals. Behavior and bird calls Vultures use their own body fluids for self-care. In A vulture is a type of bird of prey that eats dead animals, also known as scavenging on carrion. It is a medium-sized vulture with a small, semi-bald head with little feathers, long beak, and wide dark colored wings. They are closely related to eagles and hawks. ) IPA: /ˈvʌltʃə/ (Amer. Explore the differences between vultures and ravens, including their definitions, etymologies, symbolisms, and usage in literature and culture. WHAT DOES VULTURE MEAN IN ENGLISH? Vulture Vulture is the name given to two groups of convergently evolved, usually scavenging birds of prey: the New World vultures, including the Californian and Andean Condors; and the Old World vultures, including the birds that are seen scavenging on carcasses of dead animals on African plains. Komodo dragons, brown tree snakes) and even amphibians (e. [50 cm] long) and the largest vulture species. Characteristics Physical Description: An adult griffon vulture May 18, 2023 · Vultures are massive predatory birds that lack feathers on their heads and necks. The bearded vulture is the only known vertebrate whose diet consists of 70–90% bone. In many cultures, vultures Download the perfect vulture pictures. In some parts of the world, the term “buzzard” is used to describe hawks, while in others, it refers to certain vulture species. Gratuit. Old World Vultures: Bearded Vultures Egyptian Vultures Cinereous Vultures Griffon Vultures Red Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels. (60–80 cm) long. Scary neck flaps, enormous power and size, a terrifying cackle, and a name Torgos, that sounds like a warrior from the Conan chronicles. There are almost 20 kinds of Old World vultures (aepgypiinae), including the cinereous vulture, the Rüppell's vulture and the griffon vulture. Free for commercial use No attribution required Copyright-free In flight over Cuba The turkey vulture received its common name from the resemblance of the adult's bald red head and dark plumage to that of the male wild turkey, while the name "vulture" is derived from the Latin word vulturus, meaning "tearer", and is a reference to its feeding habits. The latter group may be unfamiliar to many readers. Vulture is a medium- to large-sized bird of prey, known for eating carrion. Although seldom abundant, Dec 6, 2024 · The Sacred Vulture: Death and Rebirth in Ancient Myths I. Of those, U. Their tails are also generally longer than Black Vultures. The combination of The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), also known as the lammergeier and ossifrage, is a very large bird of prey in the monotypic genus Gypaetus. Find over 100+ of the best free vulture images. com Vulture definition: any of several large, primarily carrion-eating Old World birds of prey of the family Accipitridae, often having a naked head and less powerful feet than those of the related hawks and eagles. Vultures are divided into the New World and… May 14, 2022 · Two species of vulture breed in the Northeast: the familiar turkey vulture, which breeds as far north as Quebec, and the less common black vulture, a more southern species expanding its range in New England. ), Strigiformes (owls), Cathartiformes (New World vultures), Falconiformes (falcons and caracaras), and Cariamiformes (seriemas). [3] A particular characteristic of many vultures is a bald, unfeathered head. [10] The word buzzard is used by North Americans to refer to this bird, yet in the Old World that term The Indian vulture or long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus) is a bird of prey native to the Indian subcontinent. Understanding what makes these birds special – from the complex question of “are vultures raptors” to the unique adaptations of Australian species – helps us appreciate the incredible diversity and complexity of the natural world. There are 23 different kinds of vultures alive today, including large birds called condors. See full list on britannica. Oct 12, 2025 · vulture (third-person singular simple present vultures, present participle vulturing, simple past and past participle vultured) (figurative, colloquial) To circle around one's target as if one were a vulture. Vultures of the world Vultures: vital guardians of the natural world, not just mere scavengers. Both Mature Turkey Vultures have dark plumage and featherless red heads; the undersides of the flight feathers are paler. Define vulture. Meaning of Vulture. Spanish and Chinese language support available vulture - definition, audio pronunciation and more for vulture: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals: See more in Essential British English Dictionary - Cambridge Dictionary 兀鹫 definition at Chinese. Vultures use their large wings to soar in the air for many miles without having to flap. In flight, Turkey Vulture's wings are largely silvery-white on the undersides. The featherless, red heads of the vultures in my trees identified them as turkey vultures. vultures) Any of several carrion -eating birds of the families Accipitridae and Cathartidae. Forums pour discuter de vulture, voir ses formes composées, des exemples et poser vos questions. Vaishnavism describes it as a scavenging bird, while Purana highlights its metaphorical connection to time's destructive tendencies. Identification Dark brown to black plumage with a thick, woolly-looking neck ruff Find This Bird The most common time to see a Turkey Vulture is while driving, so look along the sides of highways and in the sky over open countryside. Fun free Vultures - Nature’s Garbage Men activities! Vulture Vultures are scavenging birds found throughout the world except for Australia and other oceanic islands. The lappet-faced vulture is about the same size. However, in other cultures, vultures are revered as symbols of patience, protection, and rebirth. Learn all about birds of prey (or raptors) with definition and list of species - find out the smallest and largest predatory birds, and much more, with pictures. The nocturnal birds of prey are the owls (Strigiformes). New World vultures: These 7 species live only in North and South America. In today’s article, we’ll be comparing 18 types of vulture species. A vulture Vultures are large birds of prey that usually feed on the carrion (dead or dying animals). The Indian Vulture is the common name for various large birds of prey within the family Accipitridae (Old World vultures) and the family Cathartidae (New World vultures), typically characterized by a featherless head, keen sight, good soaring ability, and generally scavenging behavior, feeding mostly on the carcasses of dead animals. Jun 20, 2025 · The Cinereous Vulture (Aegypius monachus), also called the Eurasian Black Vulture, is one of the heaviest and largest birds of prey in the world. Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. vulture in the Birds topic by Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English | LDOCE | What you need to know about Birds: words, phrases and expressions | Birds Vultures are large birds of prey renowned for their ecological importance as nature’s cleanup crew. It is an Old World vulture belonging to the family of Accipitridae. ), Strix (owls), and Lanius (shrikes). Any of various large birds of prey characteristically having dark plumage and a featherless head and neck and generally feeding on carrion. In Natyashastra, vultures are associated with death and decay, often near cremation sites. Vultures are also called buzzards. Click for more definitions. Vulture birds are defined as avian predators that scavenge on carcasses, producing characteristic osseous alterations such as scratches and punctures on bones, particularly around facial structures, through competition while feeding. Introduction The vulture, often misunderstood and maligned in contemporary culture, holds significant meaning across various ancient civilizations. How to use bird of prey in a sentence. The cinereous vulture is a large bird in this group. g. a person or thing that preys, esp. Definition of Vulture in the Definitions. Learn more in the Cambridge English-French Dictionary. It is also known as the griffon vulture, [4] although this term is sometimes used for the genus as a whole. Even naturalist Charles Darwin described the turkey vulture as a "disgusting bird. . And there are seven types of New World vultures (cathartidae, or condors), including the king vulture and the Andean condor. These birds are generally classified into two different types – the Old World vultures and the New World vultures. Revered and feared, these birds symbolize critical themes of death and rebirth, serving as vital links between the mortal realm and the spiritual world. com, a free online dictionary with English, Mandarin Chinese, Pinyin, Strokes & Audio. Large numbers of vertebrate animals feed on carrion, including different species of birds (e. vulture meaning, definition, what is vulture: a large bird that eats dead animals: Learn more. The Old World vultures live in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Depending on where you are in the world, you may also know them as condors or buzzards, but these all describe the same scavenging bird. Lappet-faced Vulture Profile Vultures are already fearsome and creepy enough, but there’s a species in Africa that’s got it all. Nov 2, 2024 · What It Means When You See A Vulture: 4 Things You Probably Didn't Know Vultures are misunderstood birds that have gotten an unfair reputation. Sep 12, 2024 · Explore vulture symbolism to learn about the resilience, beauty, and charm of the mysterious vulture. 1. Vulture definition: Any of various large birds of prey characteristically having dark plumage and a featherless head and neck and generally feeding on carrion. midwife toad larvae, túngara Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. These are fascinating birds found on every continent except for Australia and Antarctica. However, they have different names according to what they do at a specific time. vulture meaning: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. n. - English Only forum peroxide vulture - English Only forum Solitude would be no solitude—rest no rest—while the vulture, hunger, thus sank beak and talons in m - English vulture translations: vautour [masculine], vautour. Groups, including owls, vultures, corvids, and shrikes are variably considered raptors based on morphological, ecological, and taxonomic criteria, depending on Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Listen now, download, or subscribe to “Hakai Magazine Audio Edition” through your favorite podcast app. Despite their important ecological role, these birds face numerous threats that have significantly impacted their populations worldwide. It inhabits mountainous regions from central Asia and eastern Africa to Spain, along with the Drakensberg mountain range of southern Africa. Look it up now! the vulture-like eye of an old man - grammar To vulture vulture funds vulture kettle vulture's nest a turkey vulture - English Only forum Enter the lappet-faced vulture. [3][4] Traditionally considered an Old World vulture, it actually forms a separate minor lineage of Accipitridae together with the Egyptian vulture (Neophron The taxonomy of Carl Linnaeus grouped birds (class Aves) into orders, genera, and species, with no formal ranks between genus and order. In Native American culture, vultures are often associated with death and are seen as unclean. Despite their remarkable abilities and vital contributions to the health of our ecosystems, these fascinating birds are often misunderstood and underappreciated. cinereous vultures, red-tailed hawks, carrion crows), fish (e. When hiking or traveling in hilly or mountainous areas, keep your eyes peeled for vultures. any of various very large diurnal birds of prey of the genera Neophron, Gyps, Gypaetus, etc, of Africa, Asia, and. Yabla. New World vultures (family Cathartidae, related to storks) are 24–31 in. com! Sep 5, 2025 · Bird of prey, any bird that pursues other animals for food. Oct 16, 2025 · The meaning of BIRD OF PREY is a carnivorous bird (such as a hawk, eagle, vulture, or owl) that feeds wholly or chiefly on meat taken by hunting or on carrion : raptor. Birds of prey are classified in two orders: Falconiformes and Strigiformes. In Arthashastra, it represents wisdom through a character who narrates to the King. ) IPA: /ˈvʌltʃɚ/ Noun vulture (pl. There are two main groups of vultures: Old World vultures: These 16 species live in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Vultures from the Old World (Europe, Asia, and Africa) are not related to the vultures of the New World (North and South America). See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. Torgos, king of the plains, destroyer of flamingos, and all-round awesome bird, is sadly in need of our help. Included are eagles, condors, buzzards, kites, caracaras, ospreys, harriers, accipiters, vultures, secretary birds, falcons, hawks, and bateleurs. Vultures suffer habitat loss because of human activity, and habitat degradation by chemicals such as DDT and other pesticides, which can result in fatally thin eggshells or build up over time to weaken adult birds. Sudden changes in topography allow for updrafts that the birds use to carry them into the sky. Revered and feared, this bird of prey symbolizes the interconnectedness of life and death, serving as a powerful emblem in myths and stories across the globe. So what Sure, eating dead animals is pretty gross. There are two categories of vultures. Nov 11, 2019 · Species considered raptors are subjects of monitoring programs, textbooks, scientific societies, legislation, and multinational agreements. They are recognizable from their bald heads (except the bearded vulture) and large wings. They look quite similar, though. (figurative, colloquial) A person who profits from the suffering of others. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carcasses and The meaning of vulture. The meaning of VULTURE is any of various large birds (families Accipitridae and Cathartidae) that are related to the hawks, eagles, and falcons but have weaker claws and the head usually naked and that subsist chiefly or entirely on carrion. VULTURE definition: 1. Sep 26, 2025 · The term Vulture is used across various texts to symbolize different concepts. Eng. These behaviors make vultures a symbol of What birds do you associate with Halloween? Ravens, perhaps, or crows? Don’t forget vultures. 3cw71 9pkpyn m3tsr kgvzp8 esclo 3yxl wm7u 5mv 6k7xsqv nmvx