Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura is also known in some regions as the turkey buzzard or carrion crow. The most widespread of New World vultures, this scavenger has dark plumage and a distinguishing bald red head. The wingspan can reach 75 inches, with a length of up to 35 inches at adulthood. The Turkey Vulture, like most vultures, subsists almost exclusively on carrion. The bird finds food with sharp eyes and a very good sense of smell which can detect gases emitted by decaying animals.