244 
mollusea, crustacea, and worms. This bird is 
widely spread over both Continents, and is known 
to breed in Norway, where its nest and eggs have 
been obtained ; the former placed against a ledge 
of rock under a slanting stone, and well sheltered 
under the drooping branches of some creeping 
plant. The eges, of which there are four, are of 
an olive green colour, spotted and streaked with ash 
blue and two shades of reddish brown. 
VULTURE, EGYPTIAN or ALPINE. 
VULTUR PERCNOPTERUS, Lin. 
The Egyptian Vulture does not live in flocks 
like the other Vultures, but in pairs, although 
when attracted by a carcase several may be seen 
together. Itis frequently observed in Egypt and in 
other parts, but only one of this species has been 
taken in England. It builds its nest on high rocks, 
the female laying two eggs variegated with rich 
brown spots, the under colour being ofa lighter hue. 
Vultures are numerous in warm countries, where the 
great heat induces the rapid decomposition of all 
animal matter, of which their food chiefly consists. 
Unless pressed by extreme hunger, Vultures seldom 
attack living animals, preferring carrion, and other 
putrefying substances. 
