Definition

Noun: 1. A large Old World vulture: A specific species of vulture (Gyps fulvus) native to southern Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia, characterized by its pale body plumage and contrasting dark flight feathers.

Usage

• The term "griffon vulture" is used to specifically identify this species of vulture. It is a compound noun that functions as a single unit to name the bird.
• It is typically used in zoological, conservation, and ornithological contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • A colony of griffon vultures was spotted circling above the mountain ridge.
  • Conservation efforts have helped increase the griffon vulture population in some regions.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in scientific and formal writing. In casual conversation, it might simply be called a "vulture," though this is less precise.
• "Griffon" alone can sometimes refer to this bird in specialized contexts (e.g., "The griffon is a scavenger."), but this usage is ambiguous as "griffon" can also refer to a breed of dog or a mythical creature.

Variants and Related Words

• Griffon: A shortened, though potentially ambiguous, form.
• Eurasian griffon vulture: A more precise full name specifying its range.
• Gyps fulvus: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.
• Rüppell's vulture (): A related, similar-looking species from Africa.

Synonyms

• Eurasian griffon: A direct synonym.
• Old World vulture: A broader categorical term that includes the griffon vulture and related species.

Related Phrases and Collocations

• Griffon vulture population: Refers to the number of these birds in a specific area.
• Griffon vulture conservation: Refers to efforts to protect this species.
• Griffon vulture habitat: Describes the environment where this bird lives.

Noun

1. large vulture of southern Europe and northern Africa having pale plumage with black wings