The tiny hamlet of Lake Carmel in Putnam County, NY, located within the upper bounds of commuting distance to New York City, has seen quite a population surge. Many former city dwellers, including my parents, have been drawn to its more natural environment and affordable real estate (compared to neighboring towns in Westchester County). Despite the McMansion complexes popping up in every direction, wildlife is surprisingly bustling. But perhaps the most spectacular group that has newly settled within the patchy forests surrounding the 200-acre man-made lake is the ever graceful and often eerie Cathartes aura (subspecies septentrionalis), also known as the Eastern Turkey Vulture.

About to take flight. Credit: Jeanne Garbarino

The heraldic pose. Credit: Jeanne Garbarino

While turkey vultures are not uncommon in these parts—in fact, these birds are the most common type of New World vulture—they have only been around the shores of Lake Carmel for about three years. When they first started appearing regularly, often basking in the sun while sitting on one of the lifeguard chairs, their numbers ranged from about four to six. However, with each passing year, their flock has grown and as of this Saturday morning, I counted seventeen birds in one sitting. Because they roost in large community groups, the residents of Lake Carmel regularly come across ten or more turkey vultures perched together on the fences around the lake. And, although these gentle birds of prey have become an everyday sight, they still take your breath away each time.

Driving around the lake has now become slightly more exciting since you never know if these stunningly peculiar figures will appear. Even my kids squeal “tourkeee boltures!!!” whenever we happen to catch them just lounging around. Although I consider myself to be a biologist, birds never really made it on my radar. But, after seeing these turkey vultures from such a close vantage point, I want to know more. When researching these creatures, I learned some very interesting facts about their biology and behavior. For instance, the turkey vultures’ sense of smell is very well developed, allowing them to precisely locate carrion, or dead animals. And, even though they are social animals, turkey vultures typically forage alone, returning to their gang after a solitary meal. But, perhaps the most interesting fact about turkey vulture behavior involves their poop. More specifically, turkey vultures will defecate on their own legs, taking advantage of the evaporation of water contained in their feces, as a means to cool down on hot summer days.

Though it seems as if many species are on the decline due to the exponentially growing human population and associated industrialization, turkey vultures’ numbers are actually on the increase. This is probably due, in part, to the strict adherence of, and heavy fines stipulated by, the Migratory Bird Act of 1918—which makes it illegal to kill, harm, or possess turkey vultures in the United States. While they don’t necessarily conjure up feelings of awe within the general population, especially given the reputation of vultures as spooky characters, I am falling in love with these giant birds. Their majestic presence and the seemingly effortless way in which they glide through the air is, in my opinion, a sight for sore eyes. I’m thankful that I get to see them often and encourage you to be on the lookout if you ever happen to venture beyond the city limits.

References:
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology: All About Birds
Turkey Vulture Society: Turkey Vulture Facts, Maps, and Statistics