December 14, 2021: Vultures
As we walk around the open areas of Hershey’s Mill, a quick scan of the sky almost always includes spotting a Vulture. We have two species, Turkey Vulture and Black Vulture.
The Turkey Vulture’s distinctive slow, teetering flight style probably helps the bird soar at low altitudes, where it is best able to use its nose to find carrion. Large with long wings, its black body contrasts with grey flight feathers and tail. Also, look closely for a naked bright red head.
By contrast, the Black Vulture has broad wings, a short tail, and a very small black head. If you watch closely Black Vultures fly higher, above the Turkey Vultures. The greyish feathers on the underside of their wings are only at the tips.
I’ve been told that TVs (as some call them) hunt by smell and the Black Vultures hunt by sight. Apparently, the birds feed cooperatively as well, with the Blacks taking over a carcass and leaving the scraps for the Turkey Vulture.
Happy Birding!!