Giant Vulture
Large Beast, neutral evil
200 XP
Special Abilities
Keen Sight and Smell
The vulture has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight or smell.
Pack Tactics
The vulture has advantage on an attack roll against a creature if at least one of the vulture's allies is within 5 ft. of the creature and the ally isn't incapacitated.
Actions
Multiattack
The vulture makes two attacks: one with its beak and one with its talons.
Beak
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) piercing damage.
Talons
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Giant Vultures are opportunistic scavengers that attack weakened prey or defend carrion fiercely. Use their high flying speed (60 ft.) to keep them mobile and difficult to reach, making ranged attacks and spellcasters primary targets. They can hover and swoop repeatedly, creating hit-and-run tactics. Consider using terrain with cliffs or high ground to maximize their aerial advantage.
Combat Tactics
Giant Vultures prioritize weak or isolated party members, using their beak attacks (1d8+4 damage) and talons (1d6+4 damage) to quickly disable targets. They prefer to stay airborne and out of melee range of armored opponents, only landing if necessary or when wounded. Multiple vultures will focus fire on a single target to eliminate threats quickly.
Environment & Setting
Rocky badlands, high mountain peaks, coastal cliffs, or abandoned ruins create ideal hunting grounds where vultures can leverage aerial superiority. Sparse cover and open skies work best for maximizing their flight capabilities.