 |
| MEASUREMENTS: The Black Vulture has a body length of 22 - 27 inches, a wingspan of 4 1/2 - 5 feet, and weighs 4 - 5 pounds. |
 HABITAT: These vultures are found in lowland areas along rivers or in open habitats in the southern United States and throughout Central and South America. They rarely inhabit dense forests. The Black Vulture has adapted well to human habitats and can be seen at garbage dumps, markets, and fishing docks. |
| DIET: Black Vultures mainly scavenge small to large-sized dead animals. These birds soar looking for carcasses or other scavenger activity. |
| REPRODUCTION: New World vultures do not build nests. This species lays its eggs in a cave, between large rocks, at the base of a tree, or in a hollow stump. The female lays 2 eggs that are incubated by both parents for 38 - 45 days. The young vultures fledge at about 3 months old, but stay with the parents in a social group for years. |
| NAME DERIVATION: The scientific name comes from korax, the Greek word for raven; gyps, which means a vulture; and from the Latin word atratus, meaning to be clothed in black, as in mourning. The Black Vulture has also been known as a Carrion Crow, Black Buzzard, and Jim Crow. |
INTERESTING FACTS:
- This species of vulture has benefitted from human activities and is found in greater numbers in disturbed habitats than in forested wildlife areas.
- Like the Turkey Vulture, the Black Vulture’s numbers are increasing and its range is expanding northward in response to global climate changes.
|
