black vulture

American  

noun

1. Also called carrion crow.  an American vulture, Coragyps atratus, having a black, bald head and black plumage.

2. any of several Old World vultures, especially Aegypius monachus, of southern Europe, Asia, and North Africa.

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Etymology

Origin of black vulture

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

The shots initially were tested on black vultures to make sure they could be safely injected into condors in managed care beginning in July.

From Washington Times

Only when I stooped to read the label for one velvety red blossom — it was a cockscomb, Celosia “Dracula” — did I notice the knee-high, cast-foam black vulture that was sitting watchfully beside it.

From New York Times

Depending on when you go, you can expect to see bald eagles, northern harriers, black vultures or American kestrels.

From Washington Post

It seems our black vultures may be that proverbial canary in the coal mine.

From Salon

Officials said they were told Saturday that initial tests indicate the black vultures that roost at Noah’s Ark died of the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain.

From Seattle Times