Black Vultures are large black birds with a leathery black head and a dark, hooked beak. They are very intelligent and social birds who enjoy gathering in large groups. They hunt for carrion and prey from high altitudes, and despite sharing many characteristics with the Turkey Vulture, they rely on vision rather than smell. A Black Vulture's feet are rather weak with blunt talons, but their sharp beak helps them tear flesh and even the toughest cow hide. Because of their intelligence, these birds are very difficult to scare away. Things like loud noises, flashing lights, and moving objects do not bother them, so the best way to avoid a violent encounter with them is to simply leave them alone and walk away. Similar to the Turkey Vulture, Black Vultures are helping the environment by eating the carrion and flesh of dead animals. Overall, these large birds are harmless, and have no incentive to hurt humans or animals unless they are attacked or harmed.

Turkey Vultures are large, dark brown birds, with a featherless red head and a pale beak. Sometimes referred to as the Turkey Buzzard, these vultures are the most widespread of the New World vultures. Despite having a very threatening appearance, Turkey Vultures are the only scavenger birds that are unable to kill prey. Their feet are similar to a chicken's, instead of a hawk, eagle, or other birds of prey. In spite of this disadvantage, Turkey Vultures have the largest smelling system out of all birds, which allows them to locate carrion easily and efficiently. Despite many people thinking these birds are dirty and disgusting, Turkey Vultures are actually helping to clean the environment by eating dead animals. In addition, these vultures prefer fresh meat, and would not eat a severely rotted carcass. Despite the myths and stereotypes, these birds are friendly, affectionate, and are even able to facially recognize human caretakers when in captivity!