Turkey Vulture song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Turkey Vulture, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Turkey Vultures lack a syrinx (voice box) and therefore cannot produce true songs. They are largely silent.

Calls

Their vocalizations are limited to hisses and grunts, particularly when disturbed, threatened, or competing for food. Hissing sounds are often heard from young birds in the nest or adults at a carcass.

When they vocalize

Mainly vocalize when agitated, threatened, or during interactions at a food source or nest site.

Explore the Turkey Vulture