Winter Use and Habitat Characteristics of Vulture Communal Roosts
Thompson WL, Yahner RH, Storm GL. 1990. Winter Use and Habitat Characteristics of Vulture Communal Roosts. The Journal of Wildlife Management. 54(1):77-83
We examined winter use and characteristics of 16 communal roosts used by black (Coragyps atratus) and turkey (Cathartes aura) vultures during 1986 and 1987 in southern Pennsylvania, northern Maryland, and northeastern Virginia. Eight roosts were classified as primary and 8 as secondary based on numbers of vultures per roost and on frequency of use in both winters. Roosts had a greater density of conifers and larger trees (deciduous and coniferous) than random wooded sites and presumably provided vultures nocturnal perches with favorable microclimates, increased food availability, and enhanced soaring conditions. Roosts that contain large conifers (>56 cm dbh and >21 m tall) and are near (50-200 m) habitat features that contribute to air currents should be preserved for wintering vultures.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Thompson, William; Yahner, Richard; Storm, Gerald
- Units
- GETT
- Keywords
- Animal Behavior, Animal Studies, Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), Research Report, Roost, Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)