Which bird of prey is the only raptor that regularly feeds almost entirely on bones?

The bearded vulture is the only bird of prey that regularly feeds almost entirely on bones. Also called the lammergeier, it specializes in the parts of carcasses that most other scavengers cannot digest.

Its stomach produces exceptionally strong acid, allowing it to process bone efficiently. Large bones are carried into the air and dropped onto rocky slopes called ossuaries, where they shatter into pieces small enough to swallow. Juveniles learn suitable dropping sites through experience.

Despite its vulture classification, the bearded vulture has a distinctive appearance: long, narrow wings, a diamond-shaped tail, and a dark facial band. The beard-like black feathers beneath the bill inspired its English name. It is found in mountainous regions of Europe, Africa, and Asia.