Turkey Vulture
Last Review/Updated: May 31, 2002
Cathartes aura
A beneficial scavenger, the turkey vulture is identified by a small red and unfeathered head, brownish black plumage, and large size. It is about 75 cm (30 in.) long. Wingspan often reaches 1.8 m (6 ft.). In flight it soars effortlessly for long periods, often at great heights. At this distance it may resemble an eagle, but the turkey vulture lacks the white coloration typical of an eagle. The wings are held above horizontal in a definite "V", again unlike the straight flight profile of an eagle. The turkey vulture breeds from northern Mexico to southern Canada, and winters from the southern states to South America. Although scarce in Alberta, occasional sightings in the badlands along the Red Deer River are reported. In past years several nesting sites have been found, including one 240 km (150 mi.) northeast of Edmonton.
No nest is built for the 1 to 3 eggs. Instead, the yellowish-white eggs with brown markings are laid on the ground near logs, in caves, or on cliffs.
