Horaltic Pose
Central North Carolina

Fans of bird watching know that when a turkey vulture spreads its wings this way it is called the Horaltic Pose. This turkey vulture has leucism – a condition where the pigmentation is reduced. Because this raptor is leucistic, we can see the details in the wings and feathers better than with the normal dark brown to black coloring of turkey vultures.

Also called birds of prey, turkey buzzards, or just buzzards, turkey vultures can often be seen perched in this pose, although scientists have yet to figure out why. Some scientific theories include drying their wings, warming their bodies, or baking off bacteria – but no one knows for sure.

Provenance

“Horaltic Pose” was 1 of approximately 50 images in a non-juried group show by members of the Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association (CNPA), exhibited at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, North Carolina, from July 4 – September 30, 2007.

“Horaltic Pose” was exhibited in a non-juried group show at the Wooden Stone Gallery on May 5, 2007, during the PhotoWild! Gala benefiting the Carolina Raptor Center. The framed print was donated and 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the print went entirely to this non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center.