Turkey Vulture

Widespread throughout North America, these birds are known for several unappealing characteristics, including eating roadkill, vomiting on animals (e.g. humans) that get too close, and defecating on their own feet to cool themselves. Despite these traits, one cannot help but be intrigued by their large wingspan, as they gracefully soar on thermals in the sky, contrasted by their awkward appearance and hobble-hopping gait on land.

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I. J.’s Birds of the Week Invitation LXXIII