Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

The Turkey Vulture is a large bird of prey found in the Americas. It has a wingspan of 170-183 cm and a distinctive red head, dark brown plumage, and a featherless, red-colored neck. This scavenger bird is known for its keen sense of smell, allowing it to locate carrion from great distances. Turkey Vultures are often seen soaring in the sky, using thermals to glide effortlessly. They inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Due to their scavenging nature, they play a vital role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carrion. The IUCN conservation status of the Turkey Vulture is Least Concern.

Habitat: Varied habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas