How does the head coloration of an adult Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) compare to that of its juveniles?
Answer
Adults exhibit reddish-pink to bright red heads, while juveniles have dusky gray or black heads
The Turkey Vulture (*Cathartes aura*) displays sexual maturity through changes in its head coloration. Adult birds possess a distinctive unfeathered head ranging from a reddish-pink hue to a bright red. Conversely, the juvenile birds are characterized by having heads that are dusky gray or black. This coloration changes gradually as the young birds mature into adults, indicating the onset of sexual maturity and full adulthood.
Related Questions
What family classification distinguishes the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) from the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?What is the conservation status assigned to the Asian Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?What specific flight posture, often displayed by the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), involves holding wings in a slight V-shape?Which veterinary drug, when consumed via carcasses, has caused a drastic population plummet for the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)?What is the fundamental biological reason both vulture types lack feathers on their heads when consuming carrion?How does the head coloration of an adult Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) compare to that of its juveniles?What distinguishing plumage feature is present on the neck of the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) but is absent in the Turkey Vulture (C. aura)?What unique sensory adaptation allows the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) to locate fresh carcasses, often surpassing sight-reliant scavengers?Where is the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) frequently seen, contrasting with the primary range of Sarcogyps calvus?How is the head skin texture of the Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) described when contrasted with the Turkey Vulture's head?