Turkey Vulture

Turkey Vultures are desert survivors. Gliding over the Coachella Valley, they ride warm currents searching for carrion. Their keen sense of smell leads them to rotting flesh, preventing disease and recycling nutrients. They skip fancy nests, laying eggs in hidden crevices or logs. With a six-foot wingspan held in a slight “V,” they rock gently on the breeze. A bare red head helps keep them clean, and yes, they can vomit foul food to deter threats. Despite the mess, they’re nature’s cleanup crew, turning decay into renewal.