Bird

CLASS: Aves
ORDER: Falconiformes
FAMILY: Cathartidae

SIZE:
Adult 2 - 4 lbs.; 25 - 32 inches

RANGE:
North and South America

HABITAT:
Mainly deciduous forests and woodlands; often seen over adjacent farmlands

DIET:
Wild - Carrion and other refuse; frequently feeds on nestlings and eggs; causes havoc among breeding colonies of sea birds
Zoo - Bird of prey diet

DESCRIPTION:
Black plumage flecked with brown gives off glittering reflection

Feet and upper part of neck and head are purplish-red

Beak is whitish

Resembles a domestic turkey in general appearance and especially when at rest

Narrower wings than those of black vulture; silvery linings

ADAPTATIONS:
The turkey vulture's rear toe is fairly short and high positioned making it better adapted for ground movement

Solitary by day

While they sleep, their internal temperature may drop by about 4 - 5 degrees

Graceful glider; hunts in the morning and early afternoon

Finds food by sense of smell

When seeking food, it flies low over the ground. It can detect olfactory stimuli which cannot be perceived at higher altitudes.

Most commonly and most widely distributed New World vulture. Successfully settled in the most diverse habitats. Wanders south during the winter months to warmer regions of America.

YOUNG:
Lays 2 dirty brown eggs. Chicks born with eyes open and alert. Fully grown in 3 months.

STATUS:
Not threatened; widespread; protected in U.S.