Bird
Turkey Vulture
Pretty, no; important, yes
Where Vultures Perch
Turkey vultures are found statewide in Maine most of the year, shifting toward mid- and southern coastal areas in winter. You’ll often spot them soaring over open landscapes, roadsides, and yes – even landfills.
The Wildest Turkey
Their bare heads help keep things clean while feeding, and their soaring skills let them travel up to 200 miles in a single day. Instead of building nests, turkey vultures lay eggs directly on the ground in quiet, hidden places like ledges, hollow logs, or abandoned buildings.
Quick Facts
Average Size
Measuring 2–2½ feet long with a 5½–6 foot wingspan, turkey vultures are about the size of black vultures and built for effortless, all-day soaring.
What's on the Menu
Almost exclusively scavengers, turkey vultures feed on animal carcasses they locate using an incredible sense of smell, helping clean up the landscape and slow the spread of disease.
The Look
A large, dark body topped with a featherless red head (gray in young birds). In flight, look for two-toned wings held in a shallow V, with wing tips spread like fanned fingers.
