Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

Vultures are one of nature’s most important clean up crews. The acid in their stomach is so strong that they can eat carrion infected with botulism, anthrax, and other diseases. These diseases are now safely removed from the environment and will no longer infect humans or animals.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name:

Coragyps atratus

Native Range:

Ranging from North America down to as far as Uruguay in South America.

Habitat:

Prefer a mixture of open and forested area switching between the two. They also live in rural suburbs across eastern U.S.

Convservation Status:

Least Concern

Museum Location:

Critter Courtyard

Lifespan in the Wild:

Around 20 years

Lifespan in Captivity:

30+ years

Diet:

Carrion eaters: meaning they eat dead and decaying material.