DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT
Turkey vultures range as far north as the southern border of Canada and as far south as Tierra del Fuego, Chile. They are found in forested as well as open environments.
BEHAVIOUR
Turkey vultures usually roost in groups as large as several hundred individuas, but search for food independently during the day. Populations living in colder areas migrate seasonally to warmer places.
DIET
Turkey vultures feed on carrcass of wild and domestic animals. They prefer carrion of small animals as their beak is not strong enough to cut too thick skin. Sometimes they hunt for birds, reptiles, and insects.
REPRODUCTION
Nest site is found in sheltered areas such as hollow trees or logs, crevices in cliffs, or in old buildings. Their eggs are laid on the flat bottom of the nest site.
There are on average 2 eggs incubated for 30-40 days.
GOOD TO KNOW
Turkey vultures are known for their defense mechanism of regurgitating semi-digested meat which deters most predators due to its putrid smell.
- Latin name: Cathartes aura
- IUCN – Red List – LC – Least concern
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