The Turkey Vulture locates carrion primarily by smell — highly unusual among birds — using one of the largest olfactory systems of any North American bird. In flight it holds its wings in a characteristic dihedral (V-shape) and rocks side to side. Its bare red head reduces bacterial buildup when feeding inside carcasses, and it uses the sun to warm itself each morning by spreading its wings.
Best time to see a Turkey Vulture
The best time to see a Turkey Vulture is January–July, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 172,430 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Turkey Vulture? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Often confused with
Recent Turkey Vulture sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Turkey Vulture? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Turkey Vulture is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love birds? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.