Sigma Xi Poster Competition
An Analysis of Black Vulture Nesting Behaviors
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Freshmen
Major
Wildlife & Conservation Biology
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Andrea Darracq
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
Black Vultures (Coragyps atratus) are an abundant scavenger across the southeastern United States that are commonly observed in open woodland areas close to human settlements. Though habitat requirements of Black Vultures have been studied, their nesting behaviors are largely unknown. Thus, the objective of our research was to document the nesting behaviors of adult and chick Black Vultures. Specifically, we monitored 40 Black Vulture nests in 2024 and 2025. Trail cameras were set at each nest and set to record 20 s clips throughout the nesting period. We developed an ethogram based on work conducted on other similar vulture species and used this ethogram to classify nesting behaviors as we watched video clips. Primary behavior classifications included body care, movement, social, resting, and nesting behaviors and multiple subclassifications were included within each primary category. We also documented when an individual was obscured and we were unable to classify behaviors. Currently, this work is ongoing and we will present preliminary data related to the nest behaviors observed thus far.
Fall Scholars Week 2024 Event
Other (Please write in)
Spring Scholars Week 2025
Sigma Xi Poster Competition
An Analysis of Black Vulture Nesting Behaviors
Black Vultures (Coragyps atratus) are an abundant scavenger across the southeastern United States that are commonly observed in open woodland areas close to human settlements. Though habitat requirements of Black Vultures have been studied, their nesting behaviors are largely unknown. Thus, the objective of our research was to document the nesting behaviors of adult and chick Black Vultures. Specifically, we monitored 40 Black Vulture nests in 2024 and 2025. Trail cameras were set at each nest and set to record 20 s clips throughout the nesting period. We developed an ethogram based on work conducted on other similar vulture species and used this ethogram to classify nesting behaviors as we watched video clips. Primary behavior classifications included body care, movement, social, resting, and nesting behaviors and multiple subclassifications were included within each primary category. We also documented when an individual was obscured and we were unable to classify behaviors. Currently, this work is ongoing and we will present preliminary data related to the nest behaviors observed thus far.