SE Arizona – Wings over Sky Islands Blog Post #4
With perhaps the greatest biological diversity in the entire US, many seasoned birders believe Southeast Arizona to be the top birding destination. Habitats range from the Desert Scrub at lower elevations to Riparian Oases and pine forests of the dramatic “sky islands.” The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about the natural history of these interesting winged creatures.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Black Vulture – Coragyps atratus
Name roots: Gr. korakos raven (i.e. black) gups vulture; L. atratus clothed in mourning
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The Black Vulture is a large raptor with a uniform black body and wings with silvery patches on undersides of the wingtips. In flight, broad, rounded wings with distinct “fingers” are held flat like a board. Notice very short tail and small black head.
Unlike the Turkey Vulture, it lacks a highly developed sense of smell and typically does not find carrion by scent alone. However, it often exploits the superior olfactory abilities of Turkey Vultures by following them to carcasses and displacing them from the food.
EBIRD BAR CHART & DISTRIBUTION MAP FOR COCHISE COUNTY
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Reflections of the Natural World 