“Wings are of many kinds. Butterfly’s wings, vulture’s wings, eagle-wings, spread wings of white swans, dragonfly’s serene wings, wings of albatross, lovely wings of humming birds, tiny wings of a fly or a bumble-bee-wings; and when they fly, they fly their best according to their ability of flying.”

Munia Khan

Black vultures gathered on the shore of the James River this morning in search of bit of breakfast. I noticed them, and a couple of crows, as I stepped out of my car and started down the grassy bank towards the beach.

The banks of the river here are eroded and eroding. Tides and storms keep nibbling away at the sandy soil leaving behind steep drop-offs and exposed roots. The river sweeps against the land when the tide is high.

This morning, the river laps the pebbly shore of a narrow beach, but there is little evidence of shellfish or crabs living in the shallows. The birds found a single fish to share this morning.

Vines colonize the exposed roots of fallen trees and wildflowers bloom between the beach and the road. Plant life scrambles on, finding water, sun, and soil.

And the vultures remain vigilant, watching for an opportunity to feed themselves and their families. There are always a few vultures gathered together, sharing whatever bit of food they find. They are a family, communicating; moving harmoniously and with purpose. And this morning, the beach belongs to them.

Learn more about black vultures in Virginia: Virginia Wildlife Center Vulture Facts