February 2, 2023

We are known as Black Vultures

Most humans think we're smelly and profane

But we actually spend much of our time preening 

And bathing in shallow water, and even in rain. 

Location: Goodwin Wildlife Management Area, Fellsmere

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/blkvul/cur/behavior#selfmaint (requires paid subscription - but totally worth it if you want information on ALL of the birds of the world!)

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

December 22, 2022

These are the remains of a Turkey Vulture

But the poor bird ran out of luck

But looking closely you can determine

Who it was that committed the snuff

If the feathers were torn out it was probably a mammal

If it was a bird such as a hawk, the feathers were plucked

I had to delete a line from this poem

For those who know me, it won't be hard to deduct.

(Special thanks to Ann for teaching me this!)

Location: Stan Blum Boat Ramp, Fort Pierce

Sources: https://poultry.extension.org/articles/poultry-management/predator-management-for-small-and-backyard-poultry-flocks/

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

November 21, 2022

I am a Turkey Vulture

Sometimes in the morning it's cold

So I spread out my wings to warm myself up

While dreaming of modeling for a totem pole.

Location: Orlando Wetlands Park, Christmas, FL

Sources: https://web.stanford.edu/group/stanfordbirds/text/essays/Spread-Wing_Postures.html

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson