Day 198: Black Vulture

Black Vultures are ugly birds - there's no nice way to put it. I got up close and personal with one a few weeks ago, and it seemed to tolerate my incessant snapping of photos. It just stared back at me with a face that only a mother could love.

 Black Vultures are common throughout the south and east U.S. through much of South America. Like the Turkey Vulture, the Black Vulture is the scavenger of the natural world. They mostly feed on carrion, but will also kill small or newborn animals when the opportunity strikes (which Turkey Vultures typically will not do). In heavily population areas, Black Vultures are known to feed at garbage dumps. Also like the Turkey Vulture, Black Vultures have a sharp sense of smell.

When flying, Black Vultures hold their wings level, while Turkey Vultures hold their wings in a V-shape.