Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)
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There are two species of vultures found in Austin, both of which look similar when seen flying high above. The Turkey Vulture is the larger and less common, with the black vulture being slightly smaller but more numerous. Adult turkey vultures are easily recognized when seen closely by their red heads, but the heads of young birds are black.
It is well known that vultures are an important part of nature's "clean-up crew," scavenging animal carcasses that would otherwise litter our highways and landscape. The turkey vulture is rather unique among birds in having a highly developed sense of smell. They can locate dead animals not only by sight, but by smell, allowing them to find remains hidden by trees or along cliffs. Once a turkey vulture has found carrion, black vultures are quick to notice and drop in for their share. The two species of vultures not only feed together, but often roost together as well.
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class: Aves / order: Falconiformes / family: Cathartidae / genus: Cathartes / species: aura
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