Two Black Vultures (Coragyps atratus) appeared to be intently staring at me as I drew closer to them on Tuesday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Were they sizing me up, hoping I might drop dead on the spot? As Halloween approaches, it is easy to feel a little creeped out in situations like this. Although I believe that they were simply curious about my presence, I did make sure that I moved around enough to ensure that the vultures knew that I was still alive.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Their posture is so peculiar. My Gran would have been chastising them for such pronounced slouching.
Never, ever, walk under one…just sayin.
I guess I escaped a brush with danger when I walked under these two. 🙂
Best to keep moving, Mike. That’s quite a menacing pose.
It is pretty menacing, though it simultaneously makes me smile, because it reminds me of Snoopy’s vulture pose. (https://www.pinterest.com/babs2blm/snoopy-the-vulture/)
I had that thought. Our small cat strikes that pose from the top of her scratching post.
Very rare in California, but I did see one last year. Great captures. I agree. Do not walk under them.
Not a handsome bird, but better looking than the turkey vultures we have here. Once, while photographing a butterfly I had a couple circle over me. I could sense their disappointment when I stood up and waved. Best not to give them any ideas. 🙂
We are “blessed” to have both the Turkey and the Black Vultures. I think they are actually pretty cool-looking, though I am with you in avoiding the use of the adjective “handsome” in describing them.
It is pretty hard to mistake them.
Great captures and detail of this beauty, Mike!