Hi, we have approx. 14-15 large black birds (at least a 6ft wing span) perched in our backyard tree. They do appear to be all black, at first we thought they were black vultures, but through binoculars they don't appear to have a grey head like the ones we have seen in pics. They fly back and forth between our tree and our neighbors tree flapping their wings only when they take off. Help if you can...thank you!!

Check to see if they have red heads. I'm guessing you have a group of Turkey Vultures.

No, they do not have red heads.

Any chance you could send me a photo?

I have seen the same birds, I live on the west side but work on the east side and have seen them in both areas. I does not seem normal to have such large birds in this area.

Any chance you could send a photo? If I have a clear picture, I can tell you what kind of bird it is that you are seeing. Photos can be sent to lkammin@illinois.edu.

I saw on Randall Road in Elgin, IL a large black bird with a red head. It resembled the photos of a Turkey Vulture. I didn't get a chance to take a photo. It was taking off and flying away.