Title
Scavenging of crocodile eggs by vultures (Cathartes aura and Coragyps atratus) in Quintana Roo, Mexico
Author(s)
Platt, S. G.; Charruau, P.; Rainwater, T. R.
Published
2014
Publisher
Bulletin of the Texas Ornithological Society
Abstract
Black Vultures (Coragyps atratus) and Turkey Vultures (Cathartes aura) are soaring obligate scavengers (Ruxton and Houston 2004) common throughout Mexico and Central America (Kirk and Mossman 1998, Buckley 1999). In general, Black Vultures prefer larger carrion, while Turkey Vultures appear more specialized for detecting and consuming smaller carcasses; however, both species are opportunistic foragers known to consume a wide range of foods, including carrion from wild and domestic animals (fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals), terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, carrion-dwelling insects (e.g., maggots and beetle larvae), animal dung, household garbage, and on occasion fresh and rotting fruits (Kirk and Mossman 1998, Saul Sánchez and Ortiz 1998, Buckley 1999, Platt and Rainwater 2009).
Access Full Text
A full-text copy of this article may be available. Please email the WCS Library to request.
![]()
Back
PUB26995