Geography
The turkey vulture is found in every one of the states in the continental U.S. except for Alaska while the black vulture lives primarily in the southeastern portion of the country all the way west to Texas.
Function
The turkey vulture, also called a turkey buzzard, uses its sense of smell to locate dead carcasses while the black vulture employs its eyesight to do so.
Effects
The larger turkey vulture can win a one on one fight with a black vulture but the black vulture travels in flocks; the outnumbered turkey vulture will yield a carcass to the superior numbers.
Expert Insight
Black vultures will frequently flap their wings while in flight but the turkey buzzard is able to go as long as six hours riding rising air currents without flapping its wings once.
Fun Fact
The turkey buzzard will actually vomit if threatened, throwing up a horrific smelling bit of undigested meat which can make a predator run off.
Article Written By John Lindell
John Lindell has written articles for "The Greyhound Review" and various other online publications. A Connecticut native, his work specializes in sports, fishing and nature. Lindell worked in greyhound racing for 25 years.
