Permanent Marin County Resident: Photo Of The Day

NOVATO, CA — Patch reader Ingrid Hirashima sent in this amazing close-up of a turkey vulture on her deck above Stonetree Golf Club.

Turkey vultures can be seen in the Marin area year-round. Although they are migratory birds, moving north and south over the year, some birds have taken up permanent residency here. They even breed in limited numbers in this area, as well. The Marin turkey vulture population was once as high as 11,000; that was in 2003.

The word vulture likely comes from the Latin vellere, which means to pluck or tear. Its scientific name, Cathartes aura, is far more pleasant. It means either “golden purifier” or “purifying breeze.”

Thanks so much for sharing, Ingrid!

It's Your Shot: Pictures You Take and We Share

Have you got the next incredible photo? If you have an awesome photo of nature, breathtaking scenery, kids caught being kids, a pet doing something funny or something unusual you happen to catch, we'd love to feature it on Patch. We're looking for high-resolution images that reflect the beauty that is the North Bay, and that show off your unique talents.

So, bring 'em on. No selfies. Not here.

Send your photos to [email protected]. In your email, please be sure to include information about when and where the shot was taken and any other details about what was going on.