Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vultures that visited the camp were really interested in the Catfish parts from our night fishing.
Range
Throughout all the deserts of the Southwest, as well as most of North America.
Habitat
Dry, open country, ranch lands and along roadsides where carrion is common.
Description
The Turkey Vulture is one of North America's largest birds of prey. It reaches a length of 32 inches with a wing span of 6 feet. Its overall color is brown-black with a featherless, red head, white bill and yellow feet among mature adults. Immature birds have a darker face. Although usually silent, the bird will occasionally emit a soft hiss or groan.
In flight, the Turkey Vulture rocks from side to side, rarely flapping its wings which are held at a V-angle called a dihedral. Silver-gray flight feathers look lighter than the black lining feathers of the underwing. Its long tail extends beyond its legs and feet in flight.