I took this photo of a Turkey Vulture with its bill wide open exactly a year ago today on a warm spring morning in far northern Utah under the bright sun. Earlier in the morning I had taken photos of my first of year Turkey Vulture in golden light.

Turkey Vulture with an open bill, Box Elder County, UtahTurkey Vulture with an open bill – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 640mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

While this light wasn’t golden when I took this Turkey Vulture’s photo I liked this photo because of the open bill of the vulture. It looked like the bird had something to say. A few things came to my mind when I looked at this image.

What this Turkey Vulture might say if it could speak:

  • I just flew in from Dallas, and man, are my wings tired.
  • Hello, GrubHub, I need a delivery.
  • Stop snowing!!!!
  • I’m done speaking, carrion.
  • I never learned how to cook, but I sure know how to clean up after someone else’s meal!
  • I don’t always scavenge, but when I do, I prefer something aged and rotten.

The Turkey Vulture wasn’t making any sound, which is typical for this species as they are mostly silent. Prior to striking this pose, the vulture appeared as though it was going to regurgitate something, but it didn’t.

I found a lot of birds to photograph one year ago this morning, this Turkey Vulture was just one of them. I haven’t yet seen my first of year Turkey Vulture because gray skies have kept me at home. Today I looked at the long range forecast and I think that after a slightly snowy start to April by the end of next week I should be seeing more sunshine. That will have me dancing for joy.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to view more of my Turkey Vulture photos plus facts and information about this species.