Turkey Vulture (also known as Turkey Buzzard or Carrion Crow)

This is a primary flight feather from a large, carrion-eating soaring bird. The Turkey Vulture is easily recognized in flight by its 'dihedral' (V-shaped) wing position and unsteady rocking motion. Adults have a featherless red head, while juveniles have black heads.

Uniformly dark brownish-black to charcoal grey on the dorsal surface. The ventral (under) surface typically shows a silver-grey sheen along the barbs, which creates the 'two-tone' wing look seen in flight.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous structure throughout most of the vane for aerodynamic integrity; stiff and rigid barbs with strong hooklets (barbicels); minimal plumulaceous down at the base of the calamus.

The surface is matte to slightly glossy with a stiff, parchment-like texture. It feels oily or waxy to the touch, providing water resistance and durability against the elements.

Dark coloration, ivory-colored calamus, extreme asymmetry of the vanes, and the distinct notch on the trailing edge of the tip.

Prefers open and semi-open areas including subtropical forests, shrublands, pastures, and deserts. Often seen soaring over roadsides and near rocky outcrops used for roosting.

Extremely widespread across the Americas, ranging from southern Canada to the southernmost tip of South America. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in the southern US and Central America.

Scavenger; they play a vital role in the ecosystem by disposing of carcasses, which helps prevent the spread of diseases like anthrax and rabies.

Black Vulture (feathers are shorter and more squared), Juvenile Bald Eagle (feathers usually show white mottling or different rachis coloring), and California Condor (significantly larger and much rarer).

Turkey Vultures have one of the keenest senses of smell in the bird world, allowing them to find carrion hidden under dense forest canopies. They also practice urohidrosis, where they defecate on their legs to cool down.

Excellent condition. The vane is intact with minimal fraying. The long, clean calamus suggests this was a naturally molted feather rather than one lost to predation.