Unacceptable Rypstra
122 (2) Bluff's Lookout
A wild Turkey Vulture perches in a dead tree at Pickle's Bluff in John Dean Provincial Park, BC.
I really enjoyed the hour plus watching the resident kettle of vultures. For their huge size (wingspan of 69 inches; one inch shy of the smaller Bald Eagles), they are completely silent: not just in flight, but in lack of calling to each other. All interactions were with body language only. Somehow, it made watching them a completely peaceful and awe inspiring experience, and I have found a new appreciation for a bird that is largely misunderstood and even disdained.
This one landed not very far away from me on the bluff, and I carefully maneuvered to a better position. When it started preening, I thought I would have ample opportunity to observe them at close range. Another member, however decided it was time to go, and flew at this one's perch. It flew off, and within minutes, the whole kettle was gone.
Please don't use this image on websites, blogs, etc. without my permission.
122 (2) Bluff's Lookout
A wild Turkey Vulture perches in a dead tree at Pickle's Bluff in John Dean Provincial Park, BC.
I really enjoyed the hour plus watching the resident kettle of vultures. For their huge size (wingspan of 69 inches; one inch shy of the smaller Bald Eagles), they are completely silent: not just in flight, but in lack of calling to each other. All interactions were with body language only. Somehow, it made watching them a completely peaceful and awe inspiring experience, and I have found a new appreciation for a bird that is largely misunderstood and even disdained.
This one landed not very far away from me on the bluff, and I carefully maneuvered to a better position. When it started preening, I thought I would have ample opportunity to observe them at close range. Another member, however decided it was time to go, and flew at this one's perch. It flew off, and within minutes, the whole kettle was gone.
Please don't use this image on websites, blogs, etc. without my permission.