CLASS AVES

• Animals (Kingdom Animalia)

• Chordates (Phylum Chordata)

• Vertebrates (Subphylum Vertebrata)

• Birds (Class Aves)

Black Vulture

The Coragyps atratus, commonly known as the black vulture, has a wide range that covers much of the eastern and central United States, as well as parts of Mexico and Central America. They typically inhabit open areas, including grasslands, woodlands, and agricultural fields. Their diet consists mainly of carrion, although they will also feed on eggs, young birds, and other small prey. During mating, they perform elaborate aerial displays, and nest in tree cavities or on the ground in an abandoned nest of a larger bird. Their behavior is quite sociable, often seen in groups of up to hundreds of individuals. They are easily recognizable due to their black plumage and featherless head and neck.