Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

Soaring for hours over woodland and nearby open country, the Turkey Vulture searches for remains of dead animals, locating them at least partly by means of its sharp sense of smell. As they soar, these "buzzards" ride on rising columns of warm air, called thermals, that help them to save energy as they cover miles of territory. The birds count on these air currents, and that is why we seldom see a Turkey Vulture on a windless day, when thermals do not form.

Look For : A large black bird with small, reddish head. Holds long wings in V while in flight.

Length : 25-32".

Habitat : Open country, forests.

Range : Widespread.