This long-winged raptor bears a striking resemblance to Turkey Vulture in both plumage and flight style. Adult: Black overall with yellow cere and legs. Tail is black with a broad pale subterminal band and several thinner pale bands. In flight, black underwing coverts contrast with grayish flight feathers. There is a black trailing edge on the wings. Juvenile birds similar to adults, but with a finely banded tail, limited white spotting on underparts, and paler underside to the flight feathers. Young birds also show a small white panel under the outer primaries.

Length: 46 (cm) Wingspan: 119 (cm)

Voice:

A long high weeeeeeeeeeeerrr, usually all on the same pitch.

Habitat:

Riparian woodlands, mixed woodlands, desert, canyons.

Behavior:

Soars with wings held in a dihedral.

Feeding:

Small birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians.