LOL, Paul!

Nice birds of prey... they seem to be more abundant in Europe these days, thanks to restrictions in pesticide use...

Hagar wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2007 at 10:47am:



LOL... you're right. In the NE they're often called "buzzards", but they are technically vultures. Turkey vultures, to be precise... but I don't get the "turkey" part; they certainly don't look like turkeys.

Circling Vultures:

         Contrary to popular belief, circling vultures do not necessarily indicate the presence of a dead animal.   Circling vultures may be gaining altitude for long flights, searching for food, or playing.   
         These birds soar on thermals of warm, rising air.  This allows them to best conserve their energy in flight.  After rising on the thermal, they glide as far as possible before they need to gain altitude again.   They also rely on thermals of warm air to remain aloft while scanning the ground for food. 
         You will certainly see vultures in the air over a carcass, but in the case of small carcasses, the descent is rapid.  As for larger carcasses, while remaining on the lookout for food, vultures are equally attuned to their fellow vultures.  They note when others' behavior indicates the discovery of a food source, and will flock to the area.  Often, the entire group will remain aloft until sufficient birds have arrived to dispose of the carcass in a timely fashion.
         Please note, however, that American vultures are not known to circle a dying animal.