Turkey Vulture
(Cathartes aura)

Long wide wings make this bird an expert glider. The Turkey Vulture is capable of conserving energy by using slight changes in the air to gain lift. A common bird in the Americas, it is often seen circling the open sky seeking out carrion with its power sense of smell.

In the North Eastern United States you are likely to see these birds circling in groups along highways where food is easy to find. Many birds will stay in one area all year but some will start to migrate in late March (spring) or late October (fall).

Turkey Vultures have a wingspan of six feet or two meters and can be mistaken for the larger eagles that often fly with these birds. Unlike eagles these birds show a deep “V” shaped angle (dihedral) to its wings and will often rock in flight. A silver shine reflects from the under parts of the wing which appears white at times. The small featherless head is often red in color giving this bird its name.

Similar to the Turkey Vulture below is a Black Vulture.

This is a Black vulture photograp