Turkey Vultures were highly abundant and widespread across Jamaica, while leucistic individuals were rare and widely scat- tered across our study area (Fig. 1).

Jamaica is primarily home to the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), which is the only vulture species resident on the island. In Jamaica, these birds are commonly and colloquially known as "John Crows." They play a vital ecological role as scavengers, cleaning up carrion and preventing the spread of disease. The Jamaican population belongs to a specific subspecies, Cathartes aura aura, and is notable for having distinctive preorbital facial caruncles (small bumps) that are less prominent in other populations. The "John Crow" is so deeply embedded in Jamaican culture that the John Crow Mountains are named after them. While they are often seen soaring high on thermals across the island, they are protected by law, and harming them is strictly prohibited, reflecting their importance to the island's natural balance and cultural heritage.