Acadia National Park

Description  ADULT Appears mainly blackish in harsh light, but brownish plumage tone is revealed at close range. Bald head is reddish and bill is pale. In flight, seen from below, silvery gray flight feathers contrast with otherwise dark plumage; note the proportionately long tail. JUVENILE Similar to adult, but with browner plumage and dark head and bill.

Dimensions  Length: 25-32" (64-81 cm); Wngspn: 6' (1.8 m)

Habitat  Fairly common summer visitor throughout U.S. and into southern Canada. Range contracts south in fall, many birds migrating to Central America. Found mainly in open and lightly wooded country.

Observation Tips  Easiest to see on sunny mornings before too many thermals have been generated.

Range  Florida, Mid-Atlantic, Western Canada, Plains, Texas, Southeast, Rocky Mountains, Northwest, New England, California, Great Lakes, Southwest, Eastern Canada

Voice  Mostly silent.

Discussion  The larger and more widespread of our two vulture species. Soars and glides with consummate ease with wings held in a shallow "V"; active flight is labored. Confusingly, referred to as a "Buzzard" by many nonbirders. Bald head helps reduce feather contamination when feeding on carrion; this is located by both sight and smell. Often perches with wings spread. Sexes are similar.