Pond Visitor

Ok, so the Black Vulture is not a very charismatic bird. I've never heard anyone visiting Chan Chich confess that this species was on their "most wanted" list. Of the four vulture species found in Belize, the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is arguably the most abundant. It thrives around human habitation where it scavenges on garbage and refuse. This one came down to our pond to drink -- interesting how it is resting on its "haunches." I think it must be nesting on our hillside since I've seen two of them hanging around.

Black Friday

Not that we have Black Friday here, in the sense that shoppers in the USA know it, but here are two big black vultures, side by side. More specifically, the one on the left is the black vulture (Coragyps atratus), and the red-headed one is a turkey vulture (Cathartes aura). Not unfamiliar to North Americans either since both species are widespread, especially the turkey vulture.

Here in Gallon Jug around the farm, it seems these vultures have been displaced since Hurricane Richard blew through a couple weeks ago. They were easily photographed at nearly eye level since their favorite tall roosting trees are gone.