Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vulture (*Cathartes aura*) is a large New World vulture found across much of the Americas.
The Turkey Vulture is a large New World vulture found across much of the Americas. It is best known for scavenging carrion and using its sense of smell to locate food.
What it is
The Turkey Vulture (*Cathartes aura*) is a large dark bird with long wings, a long tail, and a bare reddish head in adults. In flight, it holds its wings in a shallow V shape, and the underside feathers can appear pale or silvery. It is the most widespread of the New World vultures.
Where it lives
This species ranges from southern Canada through most of the United States, Mexico, Central America, and much of South America. It uses open and semi-open habitats such as forests, pastures, shrublands, and deserts. Northern populations are migratory and move south in winter.
How it survives
Turkey Vultures feed mainly on carrion and are notable for using smell to find food, an unusual trait among vultures. They often soar on thermals and may gather in groups at carcasses. The species is assessed as least concern, with a large, stable population that may be expanding northward.
In short
- Most widespread New World vulture
- Scavenges carrion using smell and sight
- Northern populations migrate south in winter
- Recognizable by V-shaped wing posture in flight
Turkey Vultures occur in southern Canada and are part of the country’s native bird fauna, especially in warmer months in southern regions.
Quick questions
What is the scientific name of the Turkey Vulture?
What do Turkey Vultures eat?
How do Turkey Vultures find food?
Sources
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Turkey_Vulture/overviewSupports: Identification, smell-based foraging, soaring behaviour, and general natural history.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/turkey-vultureSupports: Scientific name, physical description, range, and migratory patterns.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/facts/turkey-vultureSupports: Common name, scientific name, widespread distribution, and least concern status.
- The Peregrine Fund — https://peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/vultures/turkey-vultureSupports: Range, migration, diet, and population trend.
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Turkey_Vulture/lifehistorySupports: Population estimate and conservation concern score.
- NatureMapping Foundation — https://naturemappingfoundation.org/natmap/facts/turkey_vulture_k6.htmlSupports: General description, carrion diet, and broad habitat use.