Belize Zoo: King Vulture

In the old zoo, 1988

wonderful bird , one of the more beautiful vulture species however still slightly grotesque , the Mayans worshipped this animal as a sacred messenger of the gods

I agree, although a little on the ugly side, I still think it's a beautiful bird. And I can't think of any vultures more colourful!

This one was a rescue, I believe. You can see it's lost it's toes and talons.

I do realy like king vultures they are a stunning species

"although a little on the ugly side, I still think it's a beautiful bird"

These two statements contradict each other heavily.

Very nice photo.