Turkey Vulture, Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California
This turkey vulture is one of a few that were feeding on a skunk carcass on the Pierce Point Road. Turkey vultures or turkey buzzards get their name because their heads resemble a turkey’s. When you see them riding the thermals you may think they are using their eyes to find carrion, but in fact they rely more on their sense of smell. They lack a nasal septum and in profile you can see in one nostril and out the other. Note the very long front toes.
