A rare black vulture was spotted in Mayo, Yukon, sparking interest among local birdwatchers. The bird, typically found in the southern United States, is seldom seen in Canada. Cameron Eckert, president of the Yukon Bird Club, traveled five hours from Whitehorse to witness the unusual visitor. This marks the first reported sighting of the species in the region in recent years.

The black vulture, known for its dark plumage and scavenging habits, was observed in a rural area near Mayo. Local wildlife officials confirmed the sighting and noted its rarity in the region. Eckert described the bird as “all the buzz” among birdwatching circles, highlighting its significance.

This is the first documented appearance of the black vulture in Yukon in over a decade. Climate change and shifting migration patterns may be contributing to the bird’s unusual presence. Experts suggest that changing environmental conditions could be influencing the species’ range. While no immediate threats are reported, the sighting has prompted discussions about ecological changes in the area.