244 



mollusca, 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 eggs, 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 PEECNOPTEETJS, 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. It is 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 of a 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. 



