Turkey Vulture
NameTurkey Vulture
Common NameTurkey Vulture
Scientific NameCathartes aura
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)170
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)1400
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark brown to black plumage with a featherless, wrinkled red head and pale bill. The undersides of the flight feathers (primaries and secondaries) are silvery-gray, contrasting with the darker body and wing linings.
Vocalization / CallTurkey Vultures are largely silent, lacking a syrinx. They typically produce only hisses and grunts, especially when threatened or competing for food.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, open country, grassland, desert, agricultural land
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout the Americas, from southern Canada through the United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America down to Tierra del Fuego.
Identifying Featuresfeatherless red head (adults), dark brown/black plumage, silvery-gray undersides of flight feathers, soaring flight with wings held in a dihedral (slight 'V' shape), wobbly flight pattern
Description
The Turkey Vulture is a large scavenger known for its dark plumage, featherless red head, and broad wings. It is often seen soaring high in the sky, using its keen sense of smell to locate carrion, or perched with wings spread to sunbathe and dry its feathers.
