(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — A turkey vulture casually walking across Madera Road near Sinaloa Golf Course stopped traffic—and sparked conversation. The bird was large, slow-moving, and completely at ease as drivers and golfers looked on.
That sighting joins a growing list. In recent weeks, residents across Simi Valley have reported seeing turkey vultures in backyards, near schools, and along roads. They’ve been spotted perched on fences, circling in the sky, and roosting in eucalyptus trees along Alamo.
Turkey vultures are not new to the area. They’ve long lived in Ventura County, but they appear more visible lately. These birds are easy to identify—massive wingspans, dark feathers, and a featherless red head. Their flight pattern is distinct, too. They soar in wide circles, riding thermal air currents with very few wing flaps.
But what are they doing here?
Turkey vultures are scavengers. They feed only on carrion—dead animals. They don’t hunt. Instead, they rely on a strong sense of smell to locate decomposing animals, sometimes from miles away. Roadkill, dead rodents, or remains left behind by predators like coyotes or bobcats will draw them in.
That means if you’re seeing vultures in your area, there’s probably something dead nearby. It could be a squirrel, a rabbit, or even trash attracting smaller animals. The vultures are nature’s cleanup crew. They’re looking for food, not trouble.
Many residents have asked whether these birds pose a danger to pets. The answer is no—turkey vultures do not attack living animals. Their beaks and feet aren’t built for killing. They can’t carry away animals, and they won’t go after cats, dogs, or chickens. If anything, a healthy pet is likely to scare them off.
However, their presence can signal that other wildlife is active in the area. Coyotes and mountain lions, for example, may leave behind remains that draw vultures in. So while the vultures themselves aren’t dangerous, their appearance might be a reason to keep small pets inside or watched closely.
If you see one alone, it may be sick or injured. These birds normally stay in groups and don’t like being around people. Federal laws protect them, so they shouldn’t be touched or chased off.
Turkey vultures play an important role in keeping the environment clean. They may look strange, but they’re not out to cause harm. If you spot one circling or perched nearby, it’s just doing its job.
For more information, local birding groups and wildlife organizations can help answer questions about these large but harmless visitors.
