Buzzards Day, sometimes known as Turkey Vulture Day, is a day to celebrate these scavenging birds of prey that provide a crucial function in the ecosystem. While these words are often interchanged here in the US, other parts of the world recognize buzzards and vultures as two different types of birds. In the UK and other countries, buzzards refer to a type of hawk which are medium- to large-sized raptors that feed on small birds, mammals, and carrion (dead animals). The name, buzzard, started to gain traction among European colonists in North America that saw vultures flying high in the sky and the features reminded them of buzzards back in Europe.
By the time these settlers recognized the difference between the two birds, the name had already spread throughout North America. Both buzzards and vultures live off dead meat thanks to adaptations that allow them to break down this type of meat in their stomachs. While vultures play a role in decomposing animals, they are scavengers not decomposers. This is a very valuable role because not only do vultures help keep areas clear for humans, but they help prevent the spread of diseases from the carcasses to other animals. To celebrate Buzzards Day, see below why these two unique birds are underrated and essential creatures in the ecosystem.
- The stomach acid of a vulture is stronger than any other animal which allows them to feed on decomposing carcasses.
- The Andean Condor (native to South America) has the largest wingspan of any vulture measuring around 10-11 ft. in length.
- Buzzards tend to be smaller than vultures with buzzards having wingspans of around 4-5ft whereas vultures will have wingspans of around 6-7ft or more.
- Even though vultures prefer to eat freshly dead animals, they can consume carcasses that would kill or make other animals very sick.
- It is a myth that vultures circle dying animals. Instead, they rely upon their sight and smell to find a food source. Turkey vultures have excellent sight and smell which helps them locate a food source from a mile or more away.
- Although vultures eat dead meat, they can attack prey and will predate upon injured, wounded or sick prey. This often happens when food is scarce, and no carcasses are around.
- Vultures have weak feet and legs which means, instead of carrying their food source back to their nest, they will eat what they need at the site and feed their young leftovers while buzzards have strong feet and carry their prey back to their nests.
- Buzzards are often solitary animals and hunt independently while vultures tend to hunt in large flocks.
Sources Used:
20 Fun Facts About Vultures (thespruce.com)
Buzzards Day or Turkey Vulture Day, March 15 Holiday. (holidayinsights.com)
Buzzards vs. Vultures: What’s the Difference? | Mental Floss
What’s The Difference Between A Vulture And A Buzzard? (birdieexpert.com)