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Cathartes aura
This vulture was hanging out on a power pole next to the Pacific Ocean along Hwy 1.
Power pole next to the Pacific Ocean along Hwy 1 near Bodega, CA.
The Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) is a bird found throughout most of the Americas. It is also known in some North American regions as the turkey buzzard (or just buzzard), and in some areas of the Caribbean as the John crow or carrion crow. One of three species in the genus Cathartes, in the family Cathartidae, the Turkey Vulture is the most widespread of the New World vultures, ranging from southern Canada to the southernmost tip of South America. It inhabits a variety of open and semi-open areas, including subtropical forests, shrublands, pastures, and deserts. Wikipedia
Spotted on Feb 23, 2012
Submitted on Feb 25, 2012
4 Comments
I did see one on a post spreading its wings in Sebastopol, but could not get a good photo.
They fly into our neighborhood from the open space. They like to perch on posts and roofs and spread their wings.
I saw 2 last year . We have so many road kills , It attracts these birds.
This was the first time I saw one close-up.
these birds are beautiful.