Description:

Large bird.

  • Small head.

  • Dark color.

  • Broad, squared off wings.

  • Often seen souring overhead with Turkey Vultures (may be flying higher than the Turkey Vulture).

  • Very short, square tipped tail. Only raptor whose feet sometimes extend farther than the tail.

  • Soar on flat wings or slight dihedral.

  • Silvery patch at wing panel.

  • Wing beats quick and shallow.