I think one of the most underrated groups of birds is Vultures. They are so important to us and yet we often take them for granted. There are three species recorded for Trinidad—Turkey, Black and King (which is extremely rare, I am yet to see one!). These birds feed primarily on carrion (dead animals) some occasionally are also known to eat fruits. Their major role in the environment is to help clean up all the carcasses, without them one can only imagine the smell and sight which would exists.
In my previous notes I mentioned the resemblances between the Zone-tailed Hawk and the Turkey Vulture, today I will continue with the Turkey Vulture.
The Turkey Vulture is locally called Corbeau and is frequently observed throughout the island. In flight they are very unsteady, and often times you can see their distinctive dihedral (a V formation of the wings as they are held above their bodies). It is mainly brown-toned black in color with a red featherless head. It has a wingspan of over 5 feet and is just about 30 inches in length. The underside of the wing is two-toned in color, the upper half is dark and the lower half grayish. They have a heightened sense of smell and this is how they are able to find their food.
So the next time you see a Turkey Vulture do not turn up your nose, but smile and offer a soft thank you to a creature that’s doing a very important job!
No comments:
Post a Comment