Numerous and widespread throughout this continent and expanding north in the east.

Open area, seen soaring and circling above any carcass.

Dark, nearly black with the bottom of the primary and secondary flight feathers are contrasting pale white. Long pale tail with contrasting feathers which are seldom fanned. Adult has bare red head but the juvenile had dark gray head.

This species soars with wings set in a dihedral pattern, (v-shaped) and often rock from side to side. but when there is no wind, there wings are more level. From a distance appears as a large bird with a small head.