Turkey Vulture
Cathartes aura
A large scavenging vulture of open country, woodlands, roadsides, and farmland across the Americas. It soars for long periods on broad wings, using an exceptional sense of smell to locate carrion rather than hunting live prey. When threatened at close range, it may hiss, spread its wings, or vomit foul-smelling stomach contents as a deterrent. Its bald red head helps stay cleaner while feeding inside carcasses.
- Type
- Wing
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- ?
- Turkey Vulture