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Turkey Vulture

(Cathartes aura)

©Greg Gothard 2001

This is an adult Turkey Vulture. It has a featherless red head. The flight feathers are a silvery gray. Turkey Vultures have a naked head. This prevents any feathers on the head from getting fouled by the carrion that they eat. Head feathers are very difficult to clean.

Length: 26 inches

Wingspan: 67 inches

Weight: 4 lb

Turkey Vultures can be seen on Hawk Hill just about any time of year. Look for the large dark bird with the unsteady flight. Early in the morning they can be seen stretching their wings, gathering the morning sun.

Turkey Vulture identification tips: Turkey Vultures are large blackish brown birds. The flight feathers are a silvery gray. Turkey Vultures have nearly featherless heads. The adult turkey vulture has a red head while the juvenile has a black head. Turkey Vultures rock while in flight.

 


© Barbara Samuelson 1999

Contact the GGRO:

Mail:
Golden Gate Raptor Observatory
Building 201, Fort Mason
San Francisco, CA 94123

Phone:
(415) 331-0730

E-mail address:
ggro@parksconservancy.org

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