Turkey Vultures are very large birds that look intimidating if you aren’t familiar with their behavior and anatomy. Although technically considered raptors, Turkey Vultures rarely kill their own prey. Their talons are too weak and ill-adapted for killing. These birds are built for finding dead animals, able to smell carrion from over a mile away. They’re able to eat a carcass tainted with anthrax, tuberculosis and rabies without getting sick. Although not the prettiest of birds, I find them fascinating. While hiking the open Everglades I’ve often been approachd by these birds in what I’ve interpreted as curiosity (although it could be they are angry with me for invading their space). It is quite easy to photograph these birds, in flight or during rest, unlike their cousins, the Black Vulture, which is quite shy in comparison.
To see more of my photos go to https://1lyrick.pixieset.com/birds/
