EGYPTIAN VULTURE 73 



separate trunk, which we may suppose grew out from 

 the very root of the Y-shaped tree. They may at 

 once be distinguished from all other birds of prey by 

 the fact that the nostrils are pierced quite through, 

 whereas in the rest of the birds of prey they are divided 

 by a partition ; further, the feet and claws of the New 

 World forms are less Hawk-like. 



Of the Old World Vultures, three very interesting 

 species are figured. 



The smallest members of this family are the 

 Egyptian Vultures, found in considerable abundance 

 in the Mediterranian countries and in Africa. Though 

 it has the reputation of being an exceptionally foul 

 feeder, this bird is most useful in removing offensive 

 matter which in such hot climates would breed disease. 

 The Egyptian Scavenger also preys upon rats and 

 mice, snakes, lizards and even insects. See Plate 1, 

 Fig. 2. 



The Griffon Vulture is a large bird, having an ex- 

 treme length of about three feet six inches. It is 

 common in the southern part of Europe, particularly 

 in the neighbourhood of Gibraltar, nesting in colonies 

 in the cHffs. See Plate 1, Fig. 3. 



Probably the most interesting of all this family is 

 the Lammergeier, or Bearded Vulture, whose range 

 extends through Southern Europe, Central Asia, the 

 north of Africa, and into China. Though at one time 

 frequently met with in Switzerland, it is now almost 

 unknown in that country. It is the largest of the 

 Old World birds of prey. See Plate 1, Fig. 4. 



One of the most striking features about this bird 

 is the brilliant vermilion colour of the outer coat of 



