Bird enthusiasts are in awe of this bird found in Kincolith, BC. The black vulture is creating quite a stir in Kincolith due to the fact that its usual residency is in Mexico and the southernmost states.

Although it's not unheard of, it's quite amazing having a species of bird make its way so far north. The situation brings on a question of "Why so far from home?" We may not know for sure the fate of this bird in this area of our planet, but knowing it's survived up to this point, the bird may just have a fighting chance at life in this harsh climate we live in here in the northwest.

It seems the bird has settled in quite comfortably scrounging for food along the shores of Kincolith, and perching on its favorite power pole near the village wharf. All the while attracting the locals and birdwatchers alike to go and take a gander and a picture or two.

The Black Vulture, also known as Coragyps Atratus, is a large soaring bird with a dark grey wrinkled and featherless head. Grotesque but none-the-less beautiful in flight this bird has no syrinx(bird vocal organ) and usually grunts and makes low hissing sounds. This bird of prey usually feeds on dead carcasses and scrounges for food just like any other vulture would.

Carlo Giovanella and Roger Foxall, bird enthusiasts from the lower mainland, have made their way to Kincolith just to see the Black Vulture. In its own habitat, the vulture does not usually generate the attention it's receiving from the folks in BC. The bird, being so far away from home has bird enthusiast clamoring for shots and information surrounding this very interesting story of a bird so far from home.

Story by Edward Nelson
Photos by Delmer Duncan

From left to right, Delmer Duncan, Carlo Giovanella, Roger Foxall, Edward Nelson