Turkey vultures over Coralville Dam

A few weeks ago, we went for a walk on the Coralville Dam. To our surprise, there was a large flock of birds flying above the road. Not knowing much about birds, I thought maybe they are hawks or something similar. Since they occasionally rested on the side of the dam, it allowed us closer inspection. This is when we noticed what kind of birds are those. Turkey vultures. Not as graceful, elegant as hawks or eagles. In fact, their red beaks on the close-up photos make them look quite ugly. Yet, in the air, with wings spread, they look still graceful.

I took quite a few shots that afternoon. I considered it a good practice in panning. Especially that I still struggle with focusing on moving object with back button used for focus- my keeper ratio is nowhere close to what I would like it to be.