The King Vulture is characterized by a predominantly white body with black flight feathers. Adults display a colorful head with shades of red, orange, and yellow, making them one of the most visually distinctive vulture species. These birds are relatively large, averaging around 7.5 pounds in weight. Inhabiting a broad range across the Americas, King Vultures are found from Mexico to Argentina. They are not migratory and are highly dependent on forest habitats. Their presence is noted in various forest types, including subtropical/tropical dry and moist lowlands, as well as in grasslands and savannas that are seasonally wet or flooded. Typically, they reside at altitudes up to 5,000 feet.
The King Vulture's population is currently classified as of 'Least Concern' by the IUCN with a population less than 50,000.