If you ever read the name MARTIN S LOWNEY, then you are reading lies. Google him. He works for the US department of agriculture's inspection service. He is a government pawn. This is what happens when big government is in control. It's scary. This entire site IVILLAGE is full of people (Rhizo 1?) working to spread false information. They are called "SCHILLS". When someone knows a little TOO much information, be wary. THEY PROBABLY ARE PAID BY YOUR TAX DOLLARS TO SPREAD LIES. These birds are harmless and CARRION EATERS- meaning carcass eaters. They keep down disease, not spread it. They are probably just smelling the afterbirth on the calf. MR LOWNEY spreads these mythical situations across the web. It's repeated and passed down as fact. It's not. It's more big government lies ruining our country. You need to watch out for this government- not the vultures.

The ibis reminds me of those athletic types who confidently stride out of the surf as if to say "that was refreshing..." In all seriousness, great photos!

Great pics. About two years ago we had a colony of black vultures and an occasional turkey vultures who would roost at night in the trees behind the house at the edge of a small woods. They would fly in in platoons of 10 to15 or more. It was quite a sight. We had up to 168 at one time and usually about a hundred every night for almost a year. It was definately spooky with the leaves off the trees.

My suggestion would be to enjoy nature for what it gives you. Would I like vultures on my back patio???... hmm... that is a tough one.. great conversation piece at parties, especially if you are hosting one on your patio!