The
turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) derives its common name from the resemblance
of its bald, red head to that of the turkey. Seen at close distance, the red
head is one of the bird's most distinguishing characteristics. But since the
turkey vulture is most often seen in flight, it is more easily identified by
its long wingspan (up to six feet), its two-tone wing color (black in front
with trailing grayish-black), and its unique soaring display.
Vultures are scavengers that feed on dead animals, but contrary to myth, they prefer fresh food. To detect carrion, the turkey vulture relies on excellent long-range vision and one of the most acute senses of smell of any bird.
Although often clumsy at takeoff, the turkey vulture is magnificent when soaring. It rides heat thermals and updrafts, soaring in circular patterns with wings outstretched in a shallow V-shape. It soars for hours as it scans open fields, meadows, and roadsides for food. Turkey vultures are migratory and are seen in the Pacific Northwest only during the warm months of spring and summer.
The turkey vulture's ability to consume and digest pathogen-contaminated flesh without suffering harm makes it a valuable asset to humans, livestock, and other wildlife as a disease-control agent. Also, study of this interesting ability may result in valuable discoveries that contribute to medical and pharmaceutical advances.
Copyright © 1999 Chintimini Wildlife Rehabilitation Center