What Kind Of Vultures Are In Pennsylvania

Buzzard Business in the Keystone State: A Guide to Pennsylvania's Feathery Funeral Directors

Ever looked up at the sky and seen a magnificent bird circling lazily on wide wings? Well, hold on to your hats, bird watchers of Pennsylvania, because that might not be a majestic eagle scouting for lunch. It could be a vulture, nature's own clean-up crew, and Pennsylvania boasts two fascinating feathered undertakers!

Turkey Time: The OG of PA's Vulture Scene

The turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) is a Pennsylvania mainstay. These big guys, with wingspans reaching up to six feet, are the undisputed champs of vulture-dom in the state. They have a keen sense of smell, which is impressive considering their, ahem, less-than-refined dining habits. They can sniff out a dead deer from a mile away, which is a handy skill when your menu consists exclusively of things that are no longer, well, living.

Fun fact: Turkey vultures have a bald head for a reason! Without feathers, they avoid getting maggots and other creepy crawlies in their hair...er, I mean, feathers...while they feast.

Black is Back: The Newest Member of the Club

The black vulture (Coragyps atratus) is a more recent addition to Pennsylvania's vulture scene. These sleek, black birds are smaller than turkey vultures, but just as important to the ecosystem. They're expanding their range northward, and Pennsylvania is now a proud vulture melting pot!

Heads up: Black vultures are a little less shy than turkey vultures, and you might see them hanging out near roadsides or even airports (though hopefully they're not causing any delays!).

So You Think You've Seen a Vulture?

Telling these two apart can be tricky, but here are some clues:

• Size: Turkey vultures are bigger with a broader wingspan.
• Head: Turkey vultures have a red, wrinkly head, while black vultures have a black head (shocking, I know).
• Behavior: Turkey vultures tend to soar in circles, while black vultures might flap their wings more often.

Remember: These vultures are protected by law, so admire them from afar and don't try to befriend them (they might mistake your fingers for a tasty snack!).

Frequently Asked Vulture Questions

How to identify a vulture vs. a hawk? Vultures have broader wings and soar effortlessly, while hawks flap their wings more and have a more aggressive hunting style.

How to avoid attracting vultures to your yard? Vultures are scavengers, so make sure to dispose of any dead animals properly.

How to help vultures? Leave them alone! They're a vital part of the ecosystem and don't need our help (unless maybe you need a recommendation for a good carrion removal service...).

How to impress your friends with vulture trivia? Did you know that turkey vultures can smell a dead deer from a mile away?

How to avoid getting dive-bombed by a vulture? Don't wear a really good deer costume (seriously, they might think you're lunch).

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