Noteworthy Observations of Foraging Turkey Vultures.

We present two noteworthy observations of foraging Turkey Vultures (Cathartes aura), including consumption of a marine toad (Bufo marinus) and a live juvenile cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus). To our knowledge, these observations are the first reports of any North American vulture consuming B. marinus or a Turkey Vulture taking live mammalian prey. Our observations highlight the potential for mechanical mowers to provide carrion for Turkey Vultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]