Species · GBIF taxon 2481930
Turkey Vulture
Cathartes auraAlso known as Turkey Buzzard, John Crow, Red-headed Vulture
Turkey vultures are master aviators that soar effortlessly for hours on thermal updrafts, holding their wings in a shallow V-shape and rocking gently from side to side. Unlike most birds, they possess an extraordinary sense of smell, allowing them to locate decaying carcasses hidden beneath dense forest canopies. When threatened, they employ a unique defense mechanism by regurgitating highly acidic, semi-digested food to deter potential predators.
ScavengerDiurnalSoaring
- diet
- Carrion (primarily dead mammals, birds, and reptiles)
- family
- Cathartidae
- threats
- Lead poisoning from ammunition in carcasses, vehicle collisions, and secondary rodenticide poisoning
- life Span
- 15 to 20 years in the wild
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Look for the V-shape: Identify them in flight by their dihedral wing posture and unstable, rocking glide.
- Check fence posts: Scan roadside perches in the morning where they spread their wings to dry and warm up.
- Keep your distance: Avoid approaching nesting sites in caves or hollow logs to prevent defensive vomiting.