COMMON NAME: Turkey Vulture
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cathartes aura
PLEASE NOTE:
The turkey vulture is included here, although it is not technically classified
as a raptor.
IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS:
Wingspan 6 feet; length, 27 inches. Brownish/black body, the featherless
head is black in immature birds, red in adults. Wings are held in a V when
soaring
unlike eagles which hold their wings straight out. Birds rock or appear
unsteady in flight.
RANGE:
Southern Canada through South America. In Minnesota it nests along the
St. Croix, Mississippi and associated river valleys, as well as in the
north
central part
of the state. It migrates to the southern U.S. in the winter.
HABITAT:
Open country, roosts in large congregations in secluded woods.
NESTING:
Usually on the ground under cover, sometimes in caves. Lays 2 eggs.
FEEDING
HABITS:
Turkey vultures feed on carrion, which they locate by smell or possibly
vision. They are often seen feeding in groups on large items but
will eat almost
anything.
RAPTOR CENTER DATA:
The turkey vulture is not a common patient, nor a popular one.
In spite of having weak feet vultures have sharp beaks and will
regurgitate
their last
meal as a
defense mechanism.
CONSERVATION STATUS:
Considered common in its range, this bird is afforded no special
conservation status.
Turkey Vulture Range
Minnesota Ornithologists' Union Bird Range Map
