Wildlife
Himalayan Griffon Vulture Nepal: Soaring Giants of the Sky
The Himalayan griffon is one of the world's largest flying birds with a wingspan reaching 2.6 metres. Thermal riding along Himalayan ridgelines makes this vulture a spectacular sight for ridge walkers.
Overview
The Himalayan griffon vulture (Gyps himalayensis) is one of the world's largest raptors -- adults have a wingspan of 2.4 to 2.6 metres and weigh up to 12 kg. They soar on thermal currents along Himalayan ridgelines at altitudes up to 7,000 m, using excellent vision to spot carcasses from kilometres away. In Nepal, they are resident breeders found throughout the mountain zone from 600 to 5,500 m altitude.
Viewing Locations
Poon Hill (3,210 m) is excellent for vulture watching as the morning thermals along the Annapurna foothills lift dozens of griffons into view by 9 am. The updraft from the Kali Gandaki gorge -- the world's deepest gorge -- concentrates soaring raptors including griffons, Egyptian vultures, and bearded vultures (lammergeiers) in impressive numbers from October to April.
The Shivapuri ridge north of Kathmandu also has regular griffon sightings on clear mornings from October to March. The ridge walk from Nagi Gompa to Shivapuri peak (2,732 m) passes through prime soaring zones where birds circle within 50 metres of ridge walkers.
Cliff Nesting
Himalayan griffons nest on inaccessible cliff ledges, laying a single egg between January and March. The Annapurna massif, Langtang Lirung, and Makalu ranges all have established nesting cliffs. Chicks fledge in July to August and are distinguishable from adults by their darker, more streaked plumage through their first two years.
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FAQ
How do I distinguish a Himalayan griffon from a Eurasian griffon?
The Himalayan griffon is significantly larger and paler, with a pale sandy-buff body and dark flight feathers. The Eurasian griffon (which visits Nepal in winter) is smaller and darker brown overall. At rest, the white neck ruff of the Himalayan species is distinctive.
Are vultures declining in Nepal?
Nepal's vulture population suffered a catastrophic 90 percent decline due to diclofenac poisoning in the 1990s and 2000s (vultures consuming livestock carcasses treated with the veterinary anti-inflammatory drug). Nepal banned veterinary diclofenac in 2006 and populations are slowly recovering. Vulture restaurants (safe carcass feeding stations) have been established in the Terai.
Can vultures be seen from Kathmandu city?
On clear winter mornings, Himalayan griffons can be spotted soaring over the Shivapuri and Nagarjun ridges visible from central Kathmandu. Binoculars are needed for identification.
