I photographed this Turkey Vulture on the auto tour road at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
The soaring Turkey Vultures are a remarkable avian species, whose ability to navigate the skies is truly awe-inspiring. These birds, however, aren’t limited to the sky, often seeking sustenance on roadsides. As carrion-feeding scavengers, they can locate a dead animal from up to a mile away using their keen sense of smell, and then swiftly glide down to the road to feast on their found meal.
But this behavior not only poses a threat to the birds themselves, but also to drivers and passengers. The speed of cars and trucks on roads can make it difficult for Turkey Vultures and drivers to spot each other in time, leading to potential hazards.
Therefore, it is imperative for drivers to be vigilant and mindful of the presence of Turkey Vultures when traversing roads where they frequently flock. By doing so, they can help to ensure the safety of these birds and prevent road accidents.
In conclusion, Turkey Vultures are not only fascinating creatures but also serve an important ecological role as scavengers. By showing awareness and caution when driving near roads where they are present, we can coexist with these remarkable birds in a harmonious manner.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: RF 800mm F11 IS STM
Technical:
I was hand-holding my camera and lens.
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: January 5, 2023 (11:49 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f11 (Fixed)
- Shutter speed: 1/2500
- ISO: 2000 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 800 mm (Fixed)
I photographed an American Black Vulture at this same location and time: Black Vulture Portrait