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Presidio of San FranciscoMilitary housing near Julius Kahn Park
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Presidio of San Francisco
Turkey Vulture
(Cathartes aura)
 
Turkey Vulture
Will Elder, NPS
A Turkey Vulture above Inspiration Point.
 

Natural History: The Turkey Vulture eats carrion of all sizes. It finds dead animals by both sight and scent. This communal roosting bird is not known to breed in the Presidio.

General Distribution: This bird is found throughout the Presidio, often soaring above the forest or more open lands.

Frequency: This species is moderately common throughout the year in the Presidio.

Identifying Characteristics: This very large bird, when seen from below, has dark, two-tone wings with silver-gray flight feathers and black leading edges. The head is bald and red, and the beak is white. Its nature is to soar with seldom a flap of the wings.

Presidio Birds main page

Refugee Camp at the Presidio  

Did You Know?
In the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, nearly 250,000 people were left homeless. The Army responded quickly, establishing refugee camps on the Presidio and organizing relief efforts.

Last Updated: November 16, 2007 at 17:22 EST