CONCERNING VULTURES 
191 
rocks below, where they break to pieces. In 
reference to this habit, the bird is called 
Quebranta-huesos (meaning “ bone-breaker ”) 
by the Spaniards ; while mention is also made 
of it in the Bible as the “ ossifrage.” The 
name “ bearded,” of course, refers to the 
curious tuft of bristle-like feathers that projects 
beneath the bird’s chin ; and that of “ lam- 
mergeier ” means “ lamb-vulture.” 
Although the bird feeds to a certain extent 
upon carrion, it will also hunt and kill animals 
on its own account. Its favourite method of 
attack is to make a sudden downward swoop 
upon its would-be victim, and in this way 
frighten or push it over a precipice. It is 
even stated that the bird will try conclusions 
with a human being in this manner. 
Under the title of griffon vultures are several 
kinds found in Eastern Europe, the greater 
part of Africa, and extending to Persia, India, 
and the Malay Peninsula. 
The typical griffon or fulvous vulture stands 
about three and a half feet in height, while 
its plumage, although subject to much variation, 
is mostly of an inconspicuous tawny or yellowish 
tint; a large white frill or ruff, however, sur¬ 
rounding the throat. 
The species known as Kolbe’s griffon vulture 
is called by the Boers the Aas-vogel , or “ carrion 
