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Himalayan Grifton Vulture

During my recent visit to Vandalur Zoo, I had the chance to photograph a truly magnificent bird—the Himalayan Griffon Vulture (Gyps himalayensis). Standing before it, I was struck not only by its sheer size but also by the quiet dignity it carried.

The Himalayan Griffon is one of the largest vultures in the world, with wings that can stretch over 9 feet when in flight. Native to the high mountains and cliffs of the Himalayas, seeing it here in Chennai was both surprising and fascinating. Its pale body, broad wings, and piercing eyes give it a commanding presence, reminding me how incredible and diverse nature really is.

Capturing this bird through my lens was more than just a photograph—it was an experience. While many see vultures as scavengers, I felt a sense of respect watching this one up close. Vultures play a vital role in the ecosystem, keeping it clean by feeding on carrion and preventing the spread of disease. In that moment, I realized that every creature, no matter how misunderstood, has its own importance.

Looking back at the picture, I’m reminded of the power of observation. Sometimes, a visit to the zoo isn’t just about animals behind enclosures—it’s about learning, appreciating, and connecting with wildlife in ways we may never experience in the wild.

The Himalayan Griffon Vulture will always stay in my memory as one of the most majestic birds I’ve seen, and this encounter has deepened my admiration for nature’s balance and beauty. 🌿

Unlike powerful hunting raptors such as eagles, the Himalayan Griffon Vulture has relatively blunt claws. Their talons are not sharply curved or strong enough to grasp and kill live prey. Instead, they are adapted for a different purpose—walking on rocky cliffs and holding onto carcasses while feeding.

The claws are sturdy, broad, and strong enough to give the vulture balance when it lands on uneven surfaces in the mountains. Watching closely, I noticed how these claws are more about stability than aggression. They work almost like natural “hooks” to anchor the bird while it tears into food with its sharp beak.

This feature reminded me that every part of a creature is shaped by its lifestyle. The vulture doesn’t need deadly talons—it has evolved to be a scavenger, using its wings for soaring, its vision for spotting, and its beak for feeding. Its claws complete this perfect design of survival.