Vultures are large scavenging birds that play a significant role in ecosystems across the United States. They are sometimes mistakenly identified as other birds of prey, but their distinct featherless heads and feeding habits set them apart. Two species of New World vultures inhabit the continental US: the Turkey Vulture and the Black Vulture. These species help clean the landscape by consuming carrion, which prevents the spread of disease.
The Extensive Range and Migration of the Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) is the most widespread vulture species found across the Americas, with its range extending from southern Canada down to the tip of South America. In the United States, it can be seen across nearly the entire lower 48 states during the warmer months of the year. This broad distribution makes it the vulture most often encountered by the general public.
Populations in the northern parts of the US and Canada are migratory, moving south for the winter to warmer regions, including the southern US, Mexico, and Central America. These birds travel in large groups, sometimes numbering in the thousands, as they follow thermal air currents south. Conversely, Turkey Vultures inhabiting the southern United States are often year-round residents and do not undertake long-distance seasonal movements.
The species’ ability to navigate is aided by its exceptional sense of smell, which allows it to locate carrion hidden beneath dense forest canopies. They are highly adapted to various environments, soaring over deserts, grasslands, coastal regions, and forested areas. This adaptability contributes to its status as the most common and widely distributed vulture in the nation.
The Specific Distribution of the Black Vulture
The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) has a more restricted and concentrated presence in the United States compared to its relative. Historically, its primary range centered on the Southeastern states, extending west into Texas and south through Central and South America. They are most abundant in the warmer, more humid climates of the southern US.
Over the last five decades, the Black Vulture has notably expanded its range northward, establishing populations in the Midwest and along the Atlantic coast into the Northeast. This expansion is thought to be influenced by milder winters, which allow the species to survive in higher latitudes. Unlike the Turkey Vulture, the Black Vulture is generally non-migratory and remains a resident species year-round.
While they may undertake short-distance movements during severe winter weather, they do not participate in the long-distance migration characteristic of the Turkey Vulture. This resident status means their location is more static, indicating year-round suitability of the environment. Their northward spread continues to be monitored by researchers.
Field Identification and Preferred Roosting Habitats
Distinguishing between the two species in the field often comes down to observing their flight patterns and key physical features. The Turkey Vulture soars with its wings held in a shallow “V” shape, which causes a characteristic teetering or wobbling motion as it rides thermal updrafts. When viewed from below, the underside of its flight feathers appears pale, creating a two-toned effect against the dark body.
In contrast, the Black Vulture flies with its wings held flat, requiring more frequent flapping to maintain altitude, resulting in a more direct flight path. Black Vultures have a shorter tail and noticeable silvery-white patches at the tips of their underwings. While the adult Turkey Vulture has a bare, bright red head, the adult Black Vulture’s head is bare and dark gray or black.
Both vulture species are highly social and often use communal roosting sites, especially during the non-breeding season. These sites are typically found in tall, isolated dead trees, on power line towers, or in secluded forested areas. Research indicates that both Black and Turkey Vultures frequently select roosting locations near human-modified landscapes, such as near roads and in fragmented suburban areas.
Black Vultures show a tendency to use artificial structures, often nesting in hollow logs, rock crevices, or abandoned buildings without constructing a formal nest. Turkey Vultures also use secluded sites like caves or thickets for nesting, but generally prefer locations isolated from human disturbance. Observing these specific local habitats can confirm which species is present.