Turkey Vulture
Cathartes aura
About the Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) is a species documented in our database. Learn more about this species through the information below.
Conservation Status
Turkey Vulture is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Population Trend
stable
Current Threats
- Habitat loss and fragmentation
- Collisions with wind turbines and other human-made structures
- Lead poisoning from scavenging carcasses killed with lead ammunition
Photo Gallery
1 photos available
Geographic Distribution
Distribution by Region
Eastern United States
Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: States east of the Rocky Mountains
Western United States
Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: States west of the Rocky Mountains
Central and South America
Continent: South America
Country: Various
Region: Countries from Mexico to Argentina
Distribution Overview
The Turkey Vulture is a widespread species found in the Americas, inhabiting forests, grasslands, and urban areas.
Quick Facts
- Size
- 63 - 72 cm
- Weight
- 0.8 - 2.3 kg
- Lifespan
- up to 20-30 years
- Diet
- Carrion (dead animals), Insects, Small reptiles and amphibians
Habitat
ForestsGrasslandsUrban areasDeserts
Behavior
- Scavenges for carrion, using its keen sense of smell to locate food
- Soars and glides for long periods, using thermals to stay aloft
- Engages in social behavior, often found in large flocks
- Breeds in trees or on cliff faces, with females laying 1-3 eggs
- Both parents care for young, which leave the nest after approximately 60-80 days