A vulture named Harold shocked sanctuary staff, who thought for 20 years the bird was male, when 'he' laid an egg.

Staff at Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford, Kent, wrote on Facebook that they were "flabbergasted" after discovering the bird was female.

The sanctuary, which has more than 100 birds of prey and also has mammals including a cheetah, camel and meercat, is now looking for a "husband" for their animal.

It posted on Facebook: "Today (Thurs) Eagle Heights staff are FLABAGASTED!!! (sic).

"20 years ago we bought Harold our male Griffon Vulture only to find this morning that he is actually a SHE and has laid her 1st ever egg!!!

"We will now be searching for a husband for her so watch this space."