There is something cool watching a single Turkey Vulture – or a kettle (flock) of vultures circling overhead. Something a little ominous about it as well for they are probably sniffing the air currents for something that has passed on. Nonetheless, it amazes me to watch vultures make their lazy, wobbly circles in the sky with nary flapping a wing. They glide with their wings arched back in a slight ‘V’ shape and the wing tips are quite pronounced, like fingers.
Turkey vultures are one big bird!
Turkey Vultures are one of the largest regional birds by wingspan – about 6 feet. The Bald Eagle has it beat by 1 1/2 feet on a large Eagle. Ironically, the Bald Eagle will also feed on carrion if there is no other food available for them to catch or steal.
My strange experience
I had absolutely the most bizarre experience with Turkey Vultures this last summer. I was in the living room – large picture windows – and my attention is riveted to a massive bird that just flew over the roof and glided through the yard. Then another, and another. They were Turkey Vultures – at least seven. As I stood up to investigate I could see them flying about eight feet off the ground in front of the house, rising up just enough to clear the roof, and then descending to about eight feet again. Kind of gave me the creeps! I have never before witnessed that behavior. I’m not certain what triggered it and will probably never know.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Perhaps the most prominent feature of a Turkey Vulture is its head. It is bright red and bare of feathers. Not the most attractive of birds but I’m certain it serves them well considering how they feed.
I am aware of a rookery not far from where I live. It is down on the river in some lowland and there are numerous Turkey Vultures residing there. I will see them perched in the tree branches and tending to nests. Interestingly, a group of Turkey vultures perched in tree branches is called a wake. Heads held down, almost somber in appearance. Just waiting. Patient birds.
Turkey vultures leave me a little edgy
All of this is a little unsettling to me. Especially when I had all those Turkey Vultures swoop my house! As you can imagine, the Turkey Vulture has played a role in symbolism and mythology for centuries. Ancient Egyptians consider the vulture to be a symbol of rebirth. Numerous Egyptian gods have the wings of vultures. Native Americans considered the bird to be a sign of bad luck and death.
Closing
It is not likely one would want a photo of a Turkey Vulture in their home or office but I have 400+ amazing wildlife, landscape and bird images at RedBarnProject.com. Check them out! If you need assistance with your order, I can be reached here. I hope you enjoyed this blog post. I love birds. Turkey Vultures are birds, therefore . . . I . . . love . . . (hasp) . . . Turkey Vultures. There, I said it. To you on this day, I wish for you Peace.
