purging-vultures

Updated: June 25, 2025

The Sarcoramphs have a fleshy protuberance over the beak hence the generic name, which is a compound of two Greek words, signifying flesh, and beak or bill. The Cathartes, or `purging-vultures, derive their name from a singular habit that of throwing up their food again, not only when feeding their young, but also when providing for one another during the period of incubation.

Mayne Reid - The Boy Hunters