Black Vulture and Turkey Vulture Nesting Habits in North and South-Central Kentucky

Abstract

ABSTRACT Black and turkey vultures inhabit all environs of Kentucky, yet nest sites are seldom reported. In this study, 44 nest locations of black vultures (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) were recorded in north-central and south-central Kentucky, U.S.A., between 1999 and 2022. Black vultures comprised 65% of the nests found. For both species combined, 64% of the nests were in artificial structures. Artificial structures represented 82% of the black vulture nests and 31% of the turkey vulture nests. Black and turkey vulture nests averaged 481 and 987 m from human dwellings or activity. However, black vultures nested within 91 m, and turkey vultures had a nest 27 m from human activity. Abandoned houses and barns may provide a competitive advantage for black vultures over turkey vultures regarding nesting opportunities.