Rare Egyptian Vulture Spotted on Matsalu Bay

Birdwatcher Tarvo Valker observed a rare Egyptian vulture on Wednesday on the southern shore of Matsalu Bay. The bird was spotted on a coastal meadow near Keemu Bird Tower. The Egyptian vulture is an extremely rare visitor to Estonia.

Birdwatcher Tarvo Valker made a remarkable discovery on Wednesday on the southern shore of Matsalu Bay – an Egyptian vulture was spotted on a coastal meadow near Keemu Bird Tower, a bird that is an extremely rare visitor to Estonia.

Matsalu is one of Estonia's most important birdwatching sites, where numerous rare species have been recorded over the years. The sighting of an Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) there is, however, an extraordinary event of interest to both local birdwatchers and visitors from farther afield.

The Egyptian vulture is the smallest vulture species found in Europe, recognized by its characteristic yellow face and white plumage. The species breeds mainly in the Mediterranean region and Central Asia, making its appearance in Estonia a true rarity.