Black Vulture

Black Vulture

(Coragyps atratus)

Zopilote negro, Zocho, Gallinazo, Nopo de cabeza negra, jote de cabeza negra, urubú de cabeza negra.

Identification: Large, stocky black carrion-eater with small head and short, squared tail. In flight, white wing-tip patch contrasts with the rest of the body.

Migratory behavior: Soars extensively with brief periods of fast, strong flaps. Migrates in small flocks, often mixed with other species, but a large resident population occurs in the region. Soars using thermals and avoids flying early or late in the day. Usually is one of the first raptors to appear in the sky.

Remarks: This species is the most common non-migratory raptor in the lowlands and mid elevations. Large resident population mix with fewer migrants.

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