Egyptian vultureNeophron percnopterus

Conservation Status

Despite being the smallest vulture in the Iberian Peninsula, as a scavenging raptor it plays an important role in cleaning up ecosystems. It has white and black plumage but is easily distinguishable by its yellow face. 

It nests in cavities on cliffs but usually looks for food in vast open fields or partially wooded areas, such as the cork oak forest. Being a summer migrator, this species can be observed in nesting areas between March and September.

Once a common species, nowadays it is relatively rare. The illegal use of poisons and scarcity of food  have led to a sharp population decline. In Portugal, the main breeding nucleus is found in the Douro Internacional. In Spain, about 1,500 pairs have been identified, being one of the most important populations for the species worldwide.