Vulture

Description

The Vulture is a type of bird found in the Threshold, particularly the South. It is in many ways similar to the Condors of the Blessed Isle, though the two birds cannot interbreed. Vultures are almost entirely reliant on their keen eyesight, with minimal sense of smell, though they also seem able to detect variations in temperature via bare patches of skin, allowing them to take advantage of warm updrafts.

There is some variation in appearance between vultures in various regions. They typically have light-coloured heads and necks bare of feathers or with very fine plumage, to avoid being dirtied when delving deep into carcasses. The feathers of the body are much darker brown.

The calls of the Vulture are grunts and hisses, while at roost or when feeding on carrion.

Diet

Vultures are scavengers, feeding mostly from carcasses of dead animals which they find by soaring over open areas, often moving in flocks.

Range & Habitat

Vultures are found in the River Province , and the Eastern and Southern Threshold, most commonly over the open savannahs and deserts of the South, while in the East they compete with the smaller but more aggressive Raiton for carrion. They prefer to roost on craggy cliffs, often in loose colonies, near to open areas where carrion can be sought. Sight of a flock of vultures in the sky can be a sign to those travelling the desert, pointing out herds of horses and Austrech on the move or the aftermath of battles.

Cultural Significance

The Vulture has two very different reputations amongst Creation’s inhabitants. One tradition, seen particularly amongst the Dragonblooded, is highly positive. The Vulture is seen as a symbol of self-sacrificing motherhood, its broad wings stretching out to shield its children from harm and take the blows meant for them upon herself… in this, a favoured bird of Mela. The Vulture is also welcomed by Dragonblooded of the air aspect for its role in Sky Burials (one of the Dragonblooded Funerary Rites), descending from the sky to devour the bodies of dead Terrestrial Exalts and carry their flesh up into the sky. This positive reputation continues to dominate on the Blessed Isle and in Lookshy.

Elsewhere in the River Province , in Harborhead, and amongst many Southern desert tribes, the Vulture is viewed in a very negative light. It is seen as a creature of selfishness and cowardice, with 'vulture' used as a metaphor for those who prey on the weak or dying… “the Realm is a vulture preying on the Five Peoples” and “Lookshy is a vulture feasting on the Confederation of Rivers” are both common mutterings.