The names “vulture” and “buzzard” are often used interchangeably, but this usage masks a significant biological distinction. These two birds are not the same; they belong to different taxonomic groups and possess unique physical and behavioral adaptations. While both are large, soaring birds of prey, the difference lies in their evolutionary history, primary food sources, and global distribution. The confusion over their identity is largely a result of historical misidentification and geography.
Why the Names Overlap: Geographic Terminology
The widespread confusion between the terms “vulture” and “buzzard” originates from a geographical and historical accident in naming conventions. In Europe and Asia, “buzzard” correctly refers to medium-to-large predatory birds of the genus Buteo, such as the Common Buzzard. These raptors are characterized by broad wings and are often seen soaring high in the sky.
When early European colonists arrived in the Americas, they encountered large, dark, soaring birds that visually resembled the buzzards they knew. The colonists mistakenly applied the familiar name “buzzard” to native New World Vultures, like the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura). This misapplication was based on a superficial resemblance in flight and size, not biological fact.
The name “turkey buzzard” became a common folk name in North America, firmly establishing the linguistic error. This regional overlap in terminology is the primary source of public confusion, even though professional ornithology recognizes them as distinct species.
The Vulture: Master of Scavenging
Vultures are obligate scavengers, specializing in consuming carrion, which makes them invaluable to ecosystem health. They are divided into two distinct groups that evolved separately (convergent evolution): New World Vultures (family Cathartidae) and Old World Vultures (family Accipitridae). New World Vultures, such as the Turkey Vulture, rely on an exceptional sense of smell to locate decaying meat, a rare trait among birds.
Physical adaptations enable their unique feeding habit. Many species have bald or sparsely feathered heads and necks, which prevents rotting material from accumulating and helps maintain hygiene while feeding inside a carcass. Their digestive systems have powerful stomach acids capable of neutralizing harmful bacteria and pathogens found in putrefying flesh.
Vultures possess relatively weak feet and blunt talons. These are suitable for walking on the ground and holding down a carcass but are not strong enough for grasping or killing live prey.
The Buzzard: A True Bird of Prey
The bird scientifically known as a buzzard belongs primarily to the genus Buteo, a group of raptors commonly referred to as hawks in North America. These birds are active predators, utilizing their physical traits for hunting live animals such as rodents, small mammals, and reptiles. Buteo species, like the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), are defined by their powerful, feathered heads and necks.
A true buzzard’s primary tools are its robust feet, equipped with sharp, curved talons designed to grasp and subdue prey. Their flight style often involves soaring on thermal updrafts to survey their territory, or hunting by ambushing prey from a high perch. The buzzard’s strong, hooked beak is adapted for tearing the flesh of freshly caught meals, contrasting with the vulture’s beak, which is suited for the soft tissue of carrion.