Black Vulture
Coragyps atratus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Accipitriformes · Cathartidae
About
The black vulture, also known as the American black vulture, Mexican vulture, zopilote, urubu, or gallinazo, is a bird in the New World vulture family whose range extends from the southeastern United States to Peru, Central Chile and Uruguay in South America, and common throughout Brazil where it can be seen in large scavenging groups. Although a common and widespread species, it has a somewhat more restricted distribution than its compatriot, the turkey vulture, which breeds well into Canada and all the way south to Tierra del Fuego. It is the only extant member of the genus Coragyps, which is in the family Cathartidae. Despite the similar name and appearance, this species is not closely related to the Eurasian black vulture, an Old World vulture, of the family Accipitridae. For ease of locating animal corpses, black vultures tend to inhabit relatively open areas with scattered trees, such as chaparral, in addition to subtropical forested areas and parts of the Brazilian pantanal.
Fun Fact
In all cases, the unusual behaviour begins with the caracara bowing its head down, in an apparent invitation to preen.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in moist lowland forests, shrublands and grasslands, wetlands and swamps, pastures, and heavily degraded former forests.
Diet
Scavenger
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance