by Myriam Martin Molin
(Miami, Fl 33156)
My name is Myriam. I am a student of Ancient Egyptian religion and folklore. In pre-dynastic (most ancient) Egyptian religion the foremost deity was MAAT represented by a vulture, personifying TRUTH and JUSTICE.
I never knew this and the only vultures I ever saw (in Cuba) were the big black ones which I always thought of as disgusting.That was then and this is now.
I live in Miami, in an acre property full of trees. In the middle of my yard I have a very large pool which now I have empty (it's winter). So I was sitting by the pool when I saw this gigantic bird flying in circles right on top and, without thinking, I greeted her:"MAAT".
She continued flying on top until I left. This happened again the next day. On the third day she brought a smaller one with her. Making a long story short she came back everyday with more and more "friends". Yesterday I counted one hundred and three!
Also they know my car and fly over me (way over thanks God) WHEREVER I GO! don't get me wrong... I absolutely love them and I watch their majestic displays in awe. I had NEVER seen SOOO MANY, IN ONE PLACE...EVER! Also these are not black but gold, with the under side of the wings in light gold. They are glorious!
My questions:
1)What should (could) I do?
2) What kind of birds are these? they are NOT vultures because their heads are covered with feathers and the other day (when they flew right next to my car) I could see their bicks up close and they look more like eagle, hawk or parrot.
It is a shame that my camera broke, but I am getting a new one. I would love to tape another venue like the one I saw this past Friday.
3) Is this something that happens frequently?
Answer:
Hi Miriam, thanks for your submission...unfortunately its a little hard to answer your question of what birds they are as there are many possibilities in your area matching that description. If you could get a photo I might be able to tell you.
Mainly birds of prey in large numbers tend to be scavengers such as kite, vultures and condors however migratory species flock when flying large distances.
As to your question of what to do..well there there is not much you can or should do, it is a wonderful sight and just enjoy watching these magnificent birds in flight :)
All the best, Ben from about-falconry