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Description
The Egytian Vulture, Neophron percnopterus, is actually widespread in Africa, and southern Europe and central and southern Asia, although now quite endangered. In South Africa, it is either extinct or on the verge of extinction as a breeding bird. The species is famous for its way of breaking ostrich eggs, picking up a small stone and throwing it at the egg until the shell cracks. The scientific name refers to the Greek mythological character Neophron, who was changed into a vulture by Zeus with his friend Aegypius after a conflict broke out between the two. The species name means 'dusky wings' and refers to the black flight feathers. This vulture was also popular with the Ancient Egyptians and is alternatively called 'Pharao's Chicken'. It is depicted in Egyptian tombs and is used as a hieroglyphic character.

Description
The Egytian Vulture, Neophron percnopterus, is actually widespread in Africa, and southern Europe and central and southern Asia, although now quite endangered. In South Africa, it is either extinct or on the verge of extinction as a breeding bird. The species is famous for its way of breaking ostrich eggs, picking up a small stone and throwing it at the egg until the shell cracks. The scientific name refers to the Greek mythological character Neophron, who was changed into a vulture by Zeus with his friend Aegypius after a conflict broke out between the two. The species name means 'dusky wings' and refers to the black flight feathers. This vulture was also popular with the Ancient Egyptians and is alternatively called 'Pharao's Chicken'. It is depicted in Egyptian tombs and is used as a hieroglyphic character.