The turkey vulture has many unique and interesting qualities that make this species one of the most fascinating birds in North America. Like all other vultures, the turkey vulture has a bald head. At close range the naked red heads of the adult turkey vultures resemble those of turkeys, hence the name.
Juveniles have black heads.
Turkey vultures are the only scavenger birds that can't kill their prey. A close inspection of their feet reminds one of a chicken instead of a hawk or an eagle. Their feet are useless for ripping into prey, but the vultures have powerful beaks that can tear through even the toughest cow hide. They feed by thrusting their heads into the body cavities of rotting animals. Turkey vultures have an extraordinary sense of smell.