Black Vulture
Image: Nathan May (cc-by)
NameBlack Vulture
Common NameBlack Vulture
Scientific NameCoragyps atratus
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)64
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely black with a bare, wrinkled, dark gray head and neck. The underside of the primary flight feathers has distinctive white patches, visible in flight.
Vocalization / CallBlack Vultures are generally silent, but can produce a variety of hisses and grunts, especially when agitated, competing for food, or at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, forest edges, urban areas, agricultural fields, landfills
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and most of South America.
Identifying Featuresall-black plumage, bare dark gray head, short tail, white patches on primary wingtips (underside), soars with wings held in a slight dihedral, flaps more frequently than Turkey Vultures while soaring
Description
The Black Vulture is a medium-sized New World vulture with entirely black plumage and a bare, gray head. They are often seen soaring in groups, holding their wings in a slight dihedral, or perched on tall structures like the power line tower shown.
