BLACK VULTURE
Coragyps atratus
DESCRIPTION
The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is a large scavenging bird found primarily in the Americas. It is characterized by its dark plumage and distinctive bare head, which helps it stay clean while feeding on carrion.
FUN FACTS
- Black Vultures have a unique way of finding food by following other scavengers like Turkey Vultures | They can soar for hours without flapping their wings | Their bald heads help them stay clean while feeding on carrion
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight1.5-2.5 kg
Average Length60-70 cm
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuregroup — they often roost and feed in flocks
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Black Vultures inhabit a variety of environments, including open fields, forests, and urban areas. They prefer areas where they can easily find food and have access to roosting sites.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Urban
- Native Range
- The species is native to the Americas, ranging from the southern United States to South America.
- Continent
- North America, South America
- Countries
- United States, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia
- Diet
- Black Vultures primarily feed on carrion, often scavenging from the remains of dead animals. They have a keen sense of sight and can locate food from great distances.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- carrion
- Social Structure
- group — they often roost and feed in flocks
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-50
- Territorial
- 0
1.5-2.5 kg
Weight
60-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- mostly black plumage with a grayish head
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 5-6 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is generally stable, but local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000,000+
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and poisoning from consuming carcasses contaminated with toxins. They are also sometimes persecuted due to their scavenging habits.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to fly away quickly and their social behavior to deter potential threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon