Turkey vulture

Scientific Name

Cathartes aura

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 United States in the winter.

Habitat

Open country, roosts in large congregations in secluded woods.

Nesting

Usually on the ground under cover, sometimes in caves or abandoned sheds/structures.  Lays two 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

Turkey vultures are primarily admitted during the fall migration.

Conservation Notes

Considered common in its range, this bird is afforded no special conservation status.