Turkey Vulture Identification

The Four Keys to ID

• Size & Shape

  Turkey Vultures are large dark birds with long, broad wings. Bigger than other raptors except eagles and condors, they have long "fingers" at their wingtips and long tails that extend past their toe tips in flight. When soaring, Turkey Vultures hold their wings slightly raised, making a ‘V’ when seen head-on.

  Relative Size

  Smaller than an eagle; larger than a Red-tailed Hawk

  goose-sized or larger

  Measurements

  • Both Sexes
  • • Length: 25.2-31.9 in (64-81 cm)
    • Weight: 70.5 oz (2000 g)
    • Wingspan: 66.9-70.1 in (170-178 cm)

  © Matt Davis / Macaulay Library

• Color Pattern

  Turkey Vultures appear black from a distance but up close are dark brown with a featherless red head and pale bill. While most of their body and forewing are dark, the undersides of the flight feathers (along the trailing edge and wingtips) are paler, giving a two-toned appearance.

• Behavior

  Turkey Vultures are majestic but unsteady soarers. Their teetering flight with very few wingbeats is characteristic. Look for them gliding relatively low to the ground, sniffing for carrion, or else riding thermals up to higher vantage points. They may soar in small groups and roost in larger numbers. You may also see them on the ground in small groups, huddled around roadkill or dumpsters.
• Habitat

  Turkey Vultures are common around open areas such as roadsides, suburbs, farm fields, countryside, and food sources such as landfills, trash heaps, and construction sites. On sunny days, look for them aloft as early as 9 a.m.; in colder weather and at night they roost on poles, towers, dead trees, and fence posts.