Vulture bird definition. Within ten .

Vulture bird definition. Introduction The vulture, often misunderstood and maligned in contemporary culture, holds significant meaning across various ancient civilizations. 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. VULTURE definition: 1. Although seldom abundant, Dec 6, 2024 · The Sacred Vulture: Death and Rebirth in Ancient Myths I. These behaviors make vultures a symbol of What birds do you associate with Halloween? Ravens, perhaps, or crows? Don’t forget vultures. This article provides info about Vulture. Any of various large birds of prey characteristically having dark plumage and a featherless head and neck and generally feeding on carrion. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. 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. 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. They are closely related to eagles and hawks. See full list on britannica. black hagfish, abyssal grenadiers), mammals (e. Vultures from the Old World (Europe, Asia, and Africa) are not related to the vultures of the New World (North and South America). 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). Known for its impressive wingspan and prominent flight silhouette, it primarily feeds on carrion, making it a crucial scavenger in its ecosystem. Large numbers of vertebrate animals feed on carrion, including different species of birds (e. 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. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. midwife toad larvae, túngara Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. . These are fascinating birds found on every continent except for Australia and Antarctica. In today’s article, we’ll be comparing 18 types of vulture species. A vulture is a bird of prey that scavenges on carrion. 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). Click for more definitions. It is about 39 inches (99 centimeters) long. cinereous vultures, red-tailed hawks, carrion crows), fish (e. - 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. by Larry Pynn December 10, 2019 | 2,400 words, about 12 minutes This article is also available in audio format. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels. 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 different kinds of vultures alive today, including large birds called condors. com, a free online dictionary with English, Mandarin Chinese, Pinyin, Strokes & Audio. Dec 10, 2019 · The Vulture Watcher One man’s spirited commitment to an underappreciated bird. 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. Yet no standard definition for the synonymous terms “raptor” or “bird of prey” exists. It breeds mainly on small cliffs and hilly crags in central India and south India. There are almost 20 kinds of Old World vultures (aepgypiinae), including the cinereous vulture, the Rüppell's vulture and the griffon vulture. It is a medium-sized vulture with a small, semi-bald head with little feathers, long beak, and wide dark colored wings. 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. 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. vulture meaning: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. spotted hyenas, wild boars), reptiles (e. 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. VULTURE definition: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. The kettle may be composed of several different species at the same time. In many cultures, vultures Download the perfect vulture pictures. The latter group may be unfamiliar to many readers. Included are eagles, condors, buzzards, kites, caracaras, ospreys, harriers, accipiters, vultures, secretary birds, falcons, hawks, and bateleurs. 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. What could be creepier than a bald bird that feeds on rotting flesh? Seven vulture species populate the Americas. Vulture defined and explained with descriptions. VULTURE meaning: 1. 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. Behavior and bird calls Vultures use their own body fluids for self-care. Vultures are often misunderstood and overlooked in discussions about wildlife and conservation. And there are seven types of New World vultures (cathartidae, or condors), including the king vulture and the Andean condor. n. Meaning of Vulture. See examples of VULTURE used in a sentence. The nocturnal birds of prey are the owls (Strigiformes). Even naturalist Charles Darwin described the turkey vulture as a "disgusting bird. Torgos, king of the plains, destroyer of flamingos, and all-round awesome bird, is sadly in need of our help. They defecate on their legs to keep cool, a behavior called urohidrosis. Find more similar words at wordhippo. New World vultures (family Cathartidae, related to storks) are 24–31 in. There are two categories of vultures. Mar 28, 2025 · Birds of prey are some of nature’s most fascinating creatures, but when it comes to buzzard vs. 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. Vultures are also called buzzards. 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. Scary neck flaps, enormous power and size, a terrifying cackle, and a name Torgos, that sounds like a warrior from the Conan chronicles. a person or thing that preys, esp. Brainy birds: Vultures are intelligent birds, with at least one species, the Egyptian Vulture, even capable of using tools. However, they have different names according to what they do at a specific time. g. 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. greedily or unscrupulously: That vulture would sell out his best friend. any of various very large diurnal birds of prey of the genera Neophron, Gyps, Gypaetus, etc, of Africa, Asia, and. 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. (figurative, colloquial) A person who profits from the suffering of others. Pronunciation (Brit. There are six meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun vulture. Definition of vulture. 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. Yabla. Easy Science for Kids Vultures - Nature’s Garbage Men - learn fun facts about animals, the human body, our planet and much more. A vulture is a type of bird — with a bald head and neck — that feeds on dead animals. ), Strix (owls), and Lanius (shrikes). Learn more. vulture, A bare-headed, keen-sighted bird of prey in any of 22 species found mainly in warm regions. The vulture definition: large bird eating dead animals. They look quite similar, though. Spanish and Chinese language support available vulture meaning: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. ) IPA: /ˈvʌltʃɚ/ Noun vulture (pl. It is a powerful scavenger found across parts of Europe and Asia, especially in dry, mountainous or hilly regions. Their use of rocks to crack open ostrich eggs showcases their problem-solving abilities and cognitive sophistication, challenging the misconception that vultures are unintelligent. The Old World vultures live in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Vulture is a medium- to large-sized bird of prey, known for eating carrion. Vultures are scavenging birds that will feed on dead animals. However, in other cultures, vultures are revered as symbols of patience, protection, and rebirth. a large bird with almost no feathers on its head or neck, that eats the flesh of dead animals 2…. The lappet-faced vulture is about the same size. The featherless, red heads of the vultures in my trees identified them as turkey vultures. [3] A particular characteristic of many vultures is a bald, unfeathered head. Eng. How to use vulture in a sentence. 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. 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. Old World vultures (family Accipitridae, related to eagles) include the smallest (20 in. In Native American culture, vultures are often associated with death and are seen as unclean. In some parts of the world, the term “buzzard” is used to describe hawks, while in others, it refers to certain vulture species. He placed all birds of prey into a single order, Accipitres, subdividing this into four genera: Vultur (vultures), Falco (eagles, hawks, falcons, etc. An immature Turkey Vulture’s head is dark gray. There are 23 extant species of vulture (including condors). 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. Sep 26, 2025 · The term Vulture is used across various texts to symbolize different concepts. 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. Vaishnavism describes it as a scavenging bird, while Purana highlights its metaphorical connection to time's destructive tendencies. S. [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. Learn more in the Cambridge English-French Dictionary. In A vulture is a type of bird of prey that eats dead animals, also known as scavenging on carrion. 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. What does vulture mean? Meaning of vulture. Their tails are also generally longer than Black Vultures. [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. Jul 3, 2024 · A vulture is a unique bird known as a bird of prey. It is an Old World vulture belonging to the family of Accipitridae. Sudden changes in topography allow for updrafts that the birds use to carry them into the sky. Both Mature Turkey Vultures have dark plumage and featherless red heads; the undersides of the flight feathers are paler. [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. Synonyms for vulture include buzzard, condor, bird of prey, scavenger bird, carrion scavenger, predator, shark, wolf, vampire and kite. These birds are generally classified into two different types – the Old World vultures and the New World vultures. New World vultures: These 7 species live only in North and South America. Discover why these birds have intrigued humans throughout history. Lappet-faced Vulture Profile Vultures are already fearsome and creepy enough, but there’s a species in Africa that’s got it all. ) IPA: /ˈvʌltʃə/ (Amer. 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. Forums pour discuter de vulture, voir ses formes composées, des exemples et poser vos questions. There are two main groups of vultures: Old World vultures: These 16 species live in Europe, Africa, and Asia. 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. Other Old World vultures include the griffon vulture and Egyptian vulture. Falconiform, (order Falconiformes), any of the group of swift, graceful birds known for their predatory skill as raptors. Sep 12, 2024 · Explore vulture symbolism to learn about the resilience, beauty, and charm of the mysterious vulture. How to use bird of prey in a sentence. Birds of prey are classified in two orders: Falconiformes and Strigiformes. Vultures use their large wings to soar in the air for many miles without having to flap. These birds will rarely attack healthy animals and other creatures, although they’ll attack the sick and the weak. Despite their remarkable abilities and vital contributions to the health of our ecosystems, these fascinating birds are often misunderstood and underappreciated. They are recognizable from their bald heads (except the bearded vulture) and large wings. [50 cm] long) and the largest vulture species. 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 cinereous vulture is a large bird in this group. any of various very large diurnal birds of prey of the genera Neophron, Gyps, Gypaetus, etc, of Africa, Asia,. Despite their important ecological role, these birds face numerous threats that have significantly impacted their populations worldwide. Large folds of skin, called lappets, hang down from its head. 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. Old World Vultures: Bearded Vultures Egyptian Vultures Cinereous Vultures Griffon Vultures Red Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Unlike most bird species, Turkey Vultures rely on their sense of smell to find prey. 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. 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. " 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. Explore the differences between vultures and ravens, including their definitions, etymologies, symbolisms, and usage in literature and culture. There are two main groups; Old World and New World vultures, known for feeding almost exclusively on animal carcasses. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carcasses and The meaning of vulture. The bearded vulture is the only known vertebrate whose diet consists of 70–90% bone. net dictionary. Birds any of several superficially similar New World birds of the family Cathartidae, as the turkey 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. ), Strigiformes (owls), Cathartiformes (New World vultures), Falconiformes (falcons and caracaras), and Cariamiformes (seriemas). 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 (English) Origin & history From Anglo-Norman vultur, from Old French voutoir, voutre, from Latin vultur, voltur. 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. Komodo dragons, brown tree snakes) and even amphibians (e. 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. Definition of vulture noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Unfortunately, roughly half the world's 23 vulture species Vulture Facts Main Characteristics Vultures are large birds of prey. 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. 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. When hiking or traveling in hilly or mountainous areas, keep your eyes peeled for vultures. Of those, U. (60–80 cm) long. vulture synonyms, vulture pronunciation, vulture translation, English dictionary definition of vulture. Vulture definition: Any of various large birds of prey characteristically having dark plumage and a featherless head and neck and generally feeding on carrion. It is also known as the griffon vulture, [4] although this term is sometimes used for the genus as a whole. Characteristics Physical Description: An adult griffon vulture May 18, 2023 · Vultures are massive predatory birds that lack feathers on their heads and necks. 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). In flight, Turkey Vulture's wings are largely silvery-white on the undersides. 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. Revered and feared, these birds symbolize critical themes of death and rebirth, serving as vital links between the mortal realm and the spiritual world. Diurnal birds of prey—hawks, eagles, vultures, and falcons (Falconiformes)—are also called raptors. In Natyashastra, vultures are associated with death and decay, often near cremation sites. Get inspired by this bird’s intelligence and patience. Gratuit. vultures) Any of several carrion -eating birds of the families Accipitridae and Cathartidae. In Arthashastra, it represents wisdom through a character who narrates to the King. 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. com! Sep 5, 2025 · Bird of prey, any bird that pursues other animals for food. What does Vulture mean? Information and translations of Vulture in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. 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. So what Sure, eating dead animals is pretty gross. 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. 3 meanings: 1. Best online English dictionaries for children, with kid-friendly definitions, integrated thesaurus for kids, images, and animations. Vultures of the world Vultures: vital guardians of the natural world, not just mere scavengers. Vultures are sociable birds and are mostly seen as a collective unit. vulture definition: a large bird with no feathers on its head or neck that eats dead animals. Define vulture. vulture synonyms, pronunciation, spelling and more from Free Dictionary. Unlike many raptors that actively hunt, vultures primarily feed on carrion, preventing the spread of disease and accelerating nutrient recycling in ecosystems. vulture species, things can get a little confusing. A vulture Vultures are large birds of prey that usually feed on the carrion (dead or dying animals). 1. 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. It inhabits mountainous regions from central Asia and eastern Africa to Spain, along with the Drakensberg mountain range of southern Africa. This bird scavenges on carrion. vulture meaning, definition, what is vulture: a large bird that eats dead animals: Learn more. Find over 100+ of the best free vulture images. Listen now, download, or subscribe to “Hakai Magazine Audio Edition” through your favorite podcast app. 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. Species found in the Americas are in the family Cathartidae, and those found in Eurasia and Africa are in the family Accipitridae. Vultures are known as large scavenging birds found on all continents except for Australia and Antarctica. vulture - traduction anglais-français. Definition of Vulture in the Definitions. Nov 11, 2019 · Species considered raptors are subjects of monitoring programs, textbooks, scientific societies, legislation, and multinational agreements. 5s8 trhbt xq71tc 6x0l0i pbfk e5o 1yzo4 wos u5aut tlder