Bird watchers could be in for the fright of their lives after one of the world's biggest vultures escaped from the English School of Falconry in Old Warden.

Emmy, a Ruppell's Griffin Vulture, was being flown during the Out of Africa display today (Wednesday), when she took flight.

And members of the public are being warned not to approach the bird, which stands three feet tall and has a wing span of around three metres.

Phil Gooden, who runs the centre, said: "She got spooked and took off. We've no idea where she is. We're searching but we need to make the public aware.

"It's one of the largest vultures in the world. What we don't want is the public approaching it, but if they give us a call we'll come and try to get it."

He added: "They've got a tremendous bite, they can cut through muscle and tissue and even bone - not that I think anyone will be able to get close enough to touch her. It's not going to be a danger to pets because obviously vultures only eat dead things.

"She's not aggressive at all, but might react if she feels threatened. She's used to being around people, because we work her every day and she's been working for five years. She might come down where there are people."

Anyone who spots Emmy is asked to call the centre immediately on 01767 627527.