Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture
NameLesser Yellow-headed Vulture
Common NameLesser Yellow-headed Vulture
Scientific NameCathartes burrovianus
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)157.5
Length (cm)59
Weight (g)1250
Plumage DetailsThe body plumage is uniformly black. The bare head is predominantly yellow-orange on the crown and face, with reddish patches on the nape and sides, and bluish-purple skin around the eyes and bill base. The bill is pale, often with a bluish tint.
Vocalization / CallLike most New World vultures, Lesser Yellow-headed Vultures are largely silent, typically producing only hisses and grunts, especially when threatened or competing for food.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations from southern Mexico through Central America, and extensively in South America, particularly in the northern and eastern parts, including parts of Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Identifying Featuresbare colorful head (yellow, orange, red, blue), entirely black body plumage, pale bill, soaring flight pattern, white primary shafts (visible in flight)
Description
This medium-sized New World vulture is characterized by its entirely black body plumage and a striking bare head. It primarily feeds on carrion, soaring low over open habitats to locate food using its keen sense of smell.
