An Unexpected Visitor on the Road
This Wednesday afternoon, travelers on the C-42 road, which connects Aldea with Tortosa, encountered an unusual scene: a young vulture resting peacefully on a sign indicating one of the exits to the Baix Ebre industrial estate, near Campredó.
The Behavior of Young Vultures
The Rural Agents have explained that during this time, young vultures begin to leave their nests and take their first flights, looking for places to rest. It is not unusual to see them stopping on terraces, roofs or, as in this case, on the sides of the roads.
The Importance of Alerting
During this week, several sightings of young vultures have been reported in the Tortosa area and in other regions of the country. Some of these birds have been found near roads or rivers, with difficulty taking flight. In these situations, it is vital to contact 112 to manage the transfer of the animals to Climate Action wildlife centers or to help them find altitude.
Biological and Cultural Aspects of Vultures
Vultures are scavengers, their diet is based exclusively on dead animals. One of their distinctive features is the featherless head, which helps maintain better hygiene while feeding. Generally, these large-winged birds take advantage of hot air currents to rise, flying slowly and gliding, often in small groups, although Campredó’s vulture seemed solitary.
Symbolism of the Vulture in Different Cultures
In many cultures, the vulture is a symbol associated with death, due to its presence over decaying corpses. However, in ancient Egypt, it was revered as a symbol of love, as it often flew in pairs. This duality in the perception of the vulture reflects the diverse ways in which societies interpret its role in nature.
