Aura

Hatch Date: Summer 2022
Sex: Female
Reason Non-Releasable: Human imprint
Weight: 4.5 lbs
Joined TRC Team: August 2023
Favorite Enrichment: Scent-based enrichment and tearing up paperboard
Fun Fact: The turkey vulture olfactory system is the 8th largest of all avian species!

Aura came to TRC from Raptor Rehab of Kentucky, Inc. in Louisville, KY, where she was admitted after being unintentionally imprinted by humans. Aura was named in reference to the scientific name for Turkey Vultures, Cathartes aura, through a community naming contest. Cathartes aura roughly translates to “cleansing breeze” which refers to their important roles as scavengers. Although Turkey Vultures are expanding their range, many other vulture species around the world are rapidly declining. Aura will help us teach audiences about the value of vultures as nature’s clean up crew. This is TRC’s first ever vulture ambassador and we can’t wait to have her engage with students and program participants.

Photo credit: TRC Staff