Lammergeiers

Lammergeiers, also known as the "Death's Head" or "Lammergeier," is a large bird of prey found in the mountains of Central and Southern Europe, as well as in the Caucasus region. The species is known for its distinctive appearance, with a bald head and a large, hooked beak. The Lammergeier is a scavenger, feeding primarily on the carcasses of large animals, such as deer, elk, and even other birds of prey. It is also known to feed on carrion, including human remains, which has led to its reputation as a "carrion crow."

The Lammergeier is a monotypic species, meaning there are no recognized subspecies. It is a resident breeder in its range, with breeding pairs typically nesting in rocky cliffs or on steep slopes. The nest is a large, shallow platform made of sticks and lined with feathers. The female lays a clutch of two to four eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about 35 days. The chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after about 60 days.

The Lammergeier is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with a stable population trend. However, it is threatened by habitat loss and degradation, as well as by collisions with power lines and other human structures. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting its nesting sites and reducing human-wildlife conflict.