Larger than the Black Vulture, and uses scent to find carrion. Some migrate south, but note tropical resident birds have a white nape. Immatures have black head. In flight. Note no white on wings of Turkey Vulture compared to smaller [Black Vulture]. North American Turkey Vultures including those that migrate to the tropics have all red heads. Unusual light-colored bird. |
More likely to be found outside of the forest than very similar Greater Yellow-headed Vulture. Note immature lacks yellow head and is similar to Turkey Vulture. Group shot. |
Compare to Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, but note larger broader wings and longer tail. Found inside the forest. Note immature lacks yellow head and looks similar to Turkey Vulture. Alt. photo |