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Wildlife of Tennessee · Birds

Turkey Vulture in Tennessee

Protected by federal law, and roosts can stain roofs and smell strong. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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A turkey vulture with red bare head perched on a dead tree limb over a Tennessee field at golden hour.

At a Glance

About the Turkey Vulture

Birds nest in vents, chimneys and signs and roost on ledges. Many are protected by federal law, so nests that are in use often must be left alone and prevention is the focus.

Protected Species

Risk: Protected by federal law, and roosts can stain roofs and smell strong.

Call 615-357-7797

Scientific nameCathartes aura
Size25 to 32 inches
Where it shows upDead trees, rooftops, cell towers and open lots
When it is activeDaytime, soaring on warm air

Signs You Have One

How to Tell

These are the clues that point to a turkey vulture.

  • Large birds circling over a property
  • Roosts in tall trees and on rooftops
  • Droppings and smell below communal roosts

A Protected Species

What We Do About the Turkey Vulture

This animal is protected by state or federal law, so we do not harm it. We inspect, advise and, where the law allows, use exclusion with the right timing. If you are unsure, call us before you do anything.

Prevention

Keep Them Away

Simple steps that help for this kind of animal.

  • Cover vents and chimneys with heavy mesh
  • Use spikes, slopes or netting on ledges
  • Do not disturb active nests of protected birds
  • Clean droppings with protection

Similar Animals

More Birds

Free Tool

What Animal Is It? Identifier

Pick where it is, when you notice it and the signs you see, and get a ranked list of the likely Tennessee animals.

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Good to Know

Questions About Turkey Vulture

Still have a question?

Call 615-357-7797

How do I know if I have a turkey vulture?

Common signs: large birds circling over a property; roosts in tall trees and on rooftops; droppings and smell below communal roosts.

Is a turkey vulture dangerous?

Protected by federal law, and roosts can stain roofs and smell strong. When in doubt, keep your distance and call us.

What does Music City Wildlife do about a turkey vulture?

This animal is protected by state or federal law, so we do not harm it. We inspect, advise and, where the law allows, use exclusion with the right timing. If you are unsure, call us before you do anything. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

Free Estimate

Tell Us What Is Going On

Describe what you see, hear or smell and we will get back to you quickly with a plan and a free estimate. For an animal in the house or any emergency, skip the form and call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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