The most frequent vulture in Iberá. In flight it is easily distinguished by its way of flying with wings raised forming a pronounced "V" (dihedral) and by the constant rocking and lateral sway of its silhouette. Its plumage is black with a grayish trailing edge to the wings. The bald head is red in adults and grayish in juveniles. The bill is hooked and ivory-colored. It measures 65 to 81 cm with a wingspan of 160 to 183 cm.
Behaviour
A specialized scavenger that locates carcasses mainly by smell, an extraordinary ability among birds. It flies in wide, low circles tracking scents. It plays a fundamental ecological role by removing carrion and reducing the spread of disease.
How and when to see it
Year round. Frequently seen soaring in groups alongside black vultures over the woodland and grasslands. Active from the moment the sun warms the ground and generates thermals.
Where to see it in the Iberá
The gateways of the Great Iberá Park where turkey vulture has confirmed presence:
Tours to see it
Verified providers operating at the gateways where turkey vulture lives. You contact them directly on WhatsApp from the app.
- Esteros Ñe’é
Experiences with local storytelling and a cultural take on the marshes.★ 5.0 - Gaucho Argentino
Horseback journeys across a network of refuges in Iberá. Multi-day rides with overnight…★ 5.0 - Jurassic Plant - Night Tour
The only carnivorous-plant garden in Argentina and a pioneer in Latin America. A guided…★ 5.0 - Irupé Excursiones
Guided hiking. Guided visit to museums, historic sites, chapels and trails of the town…★ 5.0
Species profile
- Common nameTurkey Vulture
- Scientific nameCathartes aura
- GroupBird
- StatusNative
Other species of the Iberá
Discover all the wildlife of the Iberá
More than 250 species with photos, profiles and the gateways where you can see them. Map, providers and trip planner. Free, no download needed.
Open Iberá Experience