The Griffon Vulture is part of the Accipitridae family which comprises the majority of diurnal raptors with buzzards, hawks, and falconids, among others. It is a scavenging raptor recognizable by its plumage and clear and sometimes white ruff. Its long neck and head are covered with a down that improves the hygiene of the bird, unlike feathers or bare skin which would make it difficult to clean the dried blood after clearing. Its sharp beak allows the Griffon Vulture to tear out muscles and viscera from the carcasses it feeds on. It uses thermal currents for its gliding and slow flight and can thus travel hundreds of miles during its food search.