Turkey Vultures are found across North America, from southern Canada and down into South America. They are sometimes referred to as "buzzards" and are a common sight, gliding across canyons, deserts and open country. They are in search of carrion which they are able to sniff out using their powerful sense of smell. They feed almost entirely on carrion since they lack the powerful talons and bills of hawks and other raptors which are able to hunt and kill their prey.

Turkey Vultures are so-named because of the resemblance of their feathers to the feathers of turkeys. At night, they gather in communal roosts in high trees.