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Bird · Gyps himalayensis
Himalayan griffon vulture
हिमालयी गिद्ध (himalayi gidh)
IUCN NT · Near threatened
One of the largest birds in Asia, a pale sandy vulture with a wingspan approaching three metres, soaring over Himalayan valleys.
How to recognise it
Very broad, flat wings held in a shallow V, with dark flight feathers against a pale body. Often a dozen birds turning in the same thermal.
Where to see it
Gangotri
In Tibetan Buddhist practice Himalayan vultures are the working animals of sky burial.
Gangotri National Park · Harsil Valley · Kedartal (Shiva's Lake) (often)
Mussoorie
In Tibetan Buddhist practice Himalayan vultures are the working animals of sky burial.
Lal Tibba · George Everest's House · Gun Hill (often)
Naggar
In Tibetan Buddhist practice Himalayan vultures are the working animals of sky burial.
Sethan Village · Chandrakhani Pass · Rumsu Village