Vulture gang violence

There appears to be a strict social hierarchy and sense of corpse-etiquette amongst the Cinereous Vultures. These three have ganged up on one of their species. It’s pinned on its back while they enjoy their moment of triumph.

Cinereous Vultures - Rhodope Mountains - The Hall. of Einar - photograph © David Bailey (not the)

I’ve spotted a large number of quarrels amongst them. I suspect that most of the arguments are to do with sex and food. The ones in pairs seem to object to another Cinereous Vulture getting too friendly with their mate. I suspect it’s the males which are particularly offended. In addition, the ones with good access to a decent carcass seem to object to others coming too close and interrupting their meal.

I’m the same.

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