Turkey Vulture
Cathartes aura
Physical Characteristics
Size
25-32 inches
Wingspan
5.6-6 feet
Weight
4-5.3 lbs
Plumage
Black overall, red featherless head (adults), two-toned underwings in flight
Distinctive Features
Black overall
Natural History & Behavior
🌳 Habitat
Open country, deserts, forests, urban areas
🍽️ Diet
Carrion
🦅 Behavior
Soars with wings in V-shape, uses smell to find food, social roosting
🗺️ Migration Pattern
Partially migratory
🎵 Sounds
Usually silent, hisses and grunts
🛡️ Conservation Status
Least Concern
Fun Facts
Turkey Vultures have adapted well to their environment
Conservation status: Least Concern
Average size: 25-32 inches
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Turkey Vulture sound like?
Turkey Vultures make Usually silent, hisses and grunts. These vocalizations are used for communication, territory defense, and attracting mates.
Where do Turkey Vultures live?
Turkey Vultures inhabit open country, deserts, forests, urban areas. Partially migratory
What do Turkey Vultures eat?
The diet of Turkey Vultures consists primarily of carrion. They forage using various techniques depending on their habitat.
Identify Turkey Vulture Instantly
Download Bird Identifier to recognize Turkey Vulture and thousands of other bird species with just a photo