Most of north America has a crew of Nature’s Custodians. Turkey Vultures are Carion eating birds that can be seen in the back country, or back roads of Montana. They are also seen feasting on roadkill along the many interstates.
Vultures have an important job in Nature to do but have some nasty habits. Adult Turkey Vultures, or Buzzards, are big birds. They have wide, large wings that allow them to ride wind currents in the sky. Many old western movies showed flocks of soaring vultures over a battlefield or site of a Buffalo slaughter.
These ugly headed critters can feast on diseased and poisoned carrion without getting sick. They will gorge themselves until they can barely fly. The carrion that they eat can be rancid and rotten but can still be consumed.
Turkey Vultures are trash eating birds, but also have some nasty habits. It is common for them to attack trucks, cars, and farm equipment. They literally feast on the plastic trim, then crap, vomit, and defecate on the equipment. Sometimes, marinas and boats are the targets of this defile. Apparently, some plastics have embalming chemicals in them that attract Vultures.
If attacked or threatened, vultures quickly vomit. Some believe that this regurgitation is to discourage the assault. They hope that the predator will be grossed out or Fein the assault. Others believe that they are just scared.
Vultures also excrete down their legs. Their excrement contains so much ammonia that it kills any bacteria on their legs. Others believe that the excrement helps to regulate heat in their legs. Either way, it’s gross.
Vulture pairs mate for life, if they are lucky enough to find a mate that can tolerate their bad habits. Their ability to soar on wind currents is amazing. They can glide effortlessly for hours.
Turkey Vultures may not be your favorite bird, but they are nature’s caretakers.
Montana Grant
