A large group of Black and Turkey Vultures circle over the Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. At first glance one might suppose that something very large had died to attract so many vultures, but that is not the case. Large flocks of both kinds of vultures inhabit the refuge. When they see a few of their kind circling, they fly up to join them lest they miss out on the action. Usually there is nothing below for them but they all want to be first, just in case something is spotted.
Black Vultures are similar to Turkey Vultures except that their heads are black instead of red in the mature birds. The Black Vultures have a more restricted range than the Turkey Vultures and usually stay south of the Ohio River the year-round while Turkey Vultures venture north in the warmer months as far as southern Canada.
Black Vultures can be found on tree limbs as well the tops of dead palm trees. They also spend a lot of time on the ground. A small part of a large flock is seen below.
If possible, Turkey Vultures are even uglier than Black Vultures. Both species are devoid of feathers on their heads. Skin is easier to keep clean than feathers. This is important to species that often dig into carrion to feed. They are, in effect, nature's garbage collectors.
Vultures can soar for hours without flapping their wings if the sun is bright and thermals are rising. Here a Turkey Vulture shows the distinctive pattern of its wings as it soars over Woodruff.