Arizona is home to two native vulture species—the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) and the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus)—as well as the reintroduced California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus). Turkey Vultures are the most widespread, easily recognized by their long, two-toned wings, teetering flight, and keen sense of smell that helps them locate carrion. Black Vultures, found mainly in the south and along the lower Colorado River, are shorter-tailed, flap more frequently, and often rely on Turkey Vultures to find food. The California Condor, North America’s largest flying bird with a wingspan of nearly 9.5 ft, was once extinct in the wild but has been reintroduced to northern Arizona, especially the Vermilion Cliffs and Grand Canyon area. All three species are obligate scavengers, playing a critical ecological role by disposing of carcasses and reducing disease spread. While Turkey and Black Vultures are considered secure, the California Condor remains critically endangered, with ongoing recovery efforts closely monitored by wildlife agencies.