Emily Chan
One theory that explains why lammergeiers color themselves is that the iron oxide fends off harmful microbes and prevents them from spreading the bacteria all over their nests.
After returning to their nests, vulture parents have been seen rubbing their newly washed chest feathers on their eggs and little ones, perhaps to pass on the protection from germs and give them a better chance of survival.
Another theory states that the coloring is a display of strength and helps exert dominance. A bird’s redness might indicate its knowledge of local iron sources since the sulfur springs rich with iron oxide are hidden deep in the mountains. Only the most resourceful vultures are able to locate them.
Lammergeiers are found throughout mountainous habitats in Europe, Asia, and Africa. They can be spotted perching on cliffs or soaring at great heights over gorges and ridges, on the prowl for carrion below. They are also solitary nesters. They build large stick nests on sheltered ledges of rock cliffs.
During breeding season, the female will lay one to two eggs, sometimes even three. The eggs must be incubated for around 55 to 60 days.
The male and female take turns incubating the eggs, constructing the nest, and caring for the young.
After hatching, usually, only one baby bird will survive because of the aggression between siblings. When it is around 15 to 16 weeks old, the surviving hatchling will be ready to leave the nest.
