American Black Vulture vs Turkey Vulture

In short

The American Black Vulture and Turkey Vulture are both large, dark scavengers often seen soaring in search of carrion. The most reliable field mark is the head color: Black Vultures have a black head, while Turkey Vultures have a distinctive red head. Both species can be found together, but their flight patterns and wing markings differ.

Identification tips

1. Head color: Black Vulture has a black head; Turkey Vulture has a red head. 2. Flight pattern: Black Vultures have a rapid, shallow wingbeat; Turkey Vultures soar with wings in a slight V-shape. 3. Wing markings: Look for white wingtips on Black Vultures and two-toned wings on Turkey Vultures. 4. Tail length: Turkey Vultures have longer tails, visible in flight.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Turkey Vulture is slightly larger with a wingspan up to 6 feet, compared to the Black Vulture's 5 feet.

Plumage

Black Vultures have short tails and white patches at the wingtips, visible in flight. Turkey Vultures have longer tails and a two-toned wing pattern with silver-gray flight feathers contrasting with darker coverts.

Behaviour

Black Vultures often follow Turkey Vultures to carcasses, using their superior sense of smell. They are more aggressive at feeding sites. Turkey Vultures typically forage alone but may join others at food sources.

Habitat

Both species are found in open and semi-open areas, often near roads or fields. Turkey Vultures have a broader range, including more forested areas, while Black Vultures are more common in urban and suburban settings.

Voice

Neither species is particularly vocal, but Black Vultures may produce grunts and hisses, while Turkey Vultures are generally silent.