Turkey Vulture
Image: Isis I. Castro Alberto (cc-by)
NameTurkey Vulture
Common NameTurkey Vulture
Scientific NameCathartes aura
FamilyCathartidae
Wingspan (cm)170
Length (cm)72
Weight (g)1400
Plumage DetailsAdults have dull blackish-brown body plumage with a featherless, wrinkled red head and neck. The underside of the flight feathers appears silvery-gray in flight, contrasting with the darker body. The bill is pale, hooked, and relatively small.
Vocalization / CallTurkey Vultures are largely silent, lacking a syrinx. They typically produce only hisses and grunts, especially when threatened, disturbed, or competing for food.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, desert, shrubland, mountains, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout the Americas, breeding from southern Canada through the United States, Mexico, Central America, and most of South America. Northern populations migrate south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesFeatherless red head (adults), Dark brown/black plumage, Silvery undersides of flight feathers (visible in flight), V-shaped dihedral wing posture during soaring, Teetering or wobbly flight pattern, Pale, hooked bill
Description
The Turkey Vulture is a large scavenger known for its dark plumage and distinctive featherless red head in adults. It is often seen soaring high in the sky, using its keen sense of smell to locate carrion.
