GRIFFINS ; LAMMERGEYER. 407 



among them does not inspire them with alarm. The Osprey is 

 about two feet in length : and about five feet four inches in the 

 expanse of its wings. 



371. Some of the Eagles approach the Vultures in conform- 

 ation and habits ; this is the case with the Griffins, which 

 belong to the genus Gypaetus, a term that includes the Greek 

 names of both Eagle and Vulture. As an example of this group, 

 we may briefly describe the Lammergeyer, or Bearded Griffin of 



FIG. 212. LAMMERGEVER, OR BEARDED GRIFFIN. 



the Alps. This is a Bird fully equalling the largest Eagle in 

 size ; measuring four feet from the bill to the end of the tail, 

 and from nine to ten in the expanse of its wings. It derives its 

 name from a tuft of bristles, that projects downwards on each 

 side of the lower mandible. As in the Eagles, the head, neck, 

 and tarsi are clothed with feathers ; but the expression of its eye 

 has by no means the same daring and resolution, which we 

 admire in the feathered monarch ; and its bill and talons are far 

 less powerful instruments of attack, the former being longer, 

 and hooked only at the point, and the latter comparatively 

 small. In its habits, too, the Lammergeyer differs considerably 

 from the Eagle, and approaches the Chamois. It feeds upon the 

 bodies of animals that have met their death by disease, or by 

 falling down precipices ; and is not restricted to those which it 

 has itself slaughtered. Indeed it seldom, unless pressed by 

 hunger, attacks animals which can offer it much resistance ; its 

 general habit being to prey upon Hares, Lambs, Kids, and the 



