Turkey Vultures sport a red head, and have a distinct black-and-white pattern under their wings. Although Turkey Vultures are relatives of storks and ibises, they can be found all over Costa Rica, including high in the mountains. This one doesn’t seem to have a pale blue nape, suggesting that it is a migratory rather than a resident example.

A Turkey Vulture lands in a tree on the Osa Peninsula.

Turkey Vultures have a keen sense of smell and a hooked bill that help them locate and rip apart carrion.

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