Turkey Vulture

In Ecuador, the Turkey Vulture is widespread and common, occurring from coastal lowlands to the Andes and throughout the Amazon Basin. It is highly adaptable, found in open habitats such as farmland, savannas, and forest edges, as well as soaring above rivers and mountains. Its ability to exploit a wide range of environments allows it to thrive across the country, from sea level up to elevations of around 3,000 meters. Turkey Vultures are often seen circling in groups, riding thermals to conserve energy while scanning vast areas for food.

The Turkey Vulture has an extraordinary sense of smell—unusual among birds—which allows it to detect the scent of decaying flesh from great distances, even beneath forest canopy. This ability makes it one of the few birds that can locate hidden carrion. Despite its somewhat sinister reputation, it is a gentle species that rarely kills live prey, relying almost entirely on scavenging. Another fascinating trait is its defense mechanism: when threatened, it may regurgitate foul-smelling, partially digested food to deter predators. Its flight style is also iconic—graceful, effortless soaring with minimal wingbeats, often mistaken for eagles or hawks until the characteristic “V” shape and rocking motion give it away.