Turkey Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura
(Cathartidae)

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26 inches long with a 67 inch wingspan. The Turkey Vulture is a very large broad winged bird with a long rounded tail. The plumage is black with silver wing linings. The head is red with no feathering. The immature bird has a gray head.

 

The Turkey Vulture is a common bird that can be seen from early March through mid October.

 

The Turkey Vulture is commonly known as a buzzard. It gets its name from its bare red head and dark body just like a Wild Turkey. The Turkey Vulture is often in communal roosts. It soars throughout the day with wings held in a “V” while usually rocking back and forth. It eats carrion. It is usually seen flying with more than one Turkey Vulture. The Turkey Vulture is seldom heard.

 

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