WARREN (WWJ) -- Something for the wildlife watchers in Metro Detroit: Turkey vultures have returned to the area.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, these large birds of prey have been making their way back to the Great Lakes state in recent days, after wintering down south.
Earlier this week, photos of these birds — two of them spotted in the area of Martin and Gilbert in Warren — caused a bit of a stir in a community Facebook group. A member warned neighbors: "Watch your small kids and pets!!!"
In truth, there's nothing to worry about in that regard.
The DNR says turkey vultures play an important role in the environment by acting like nature's clean-up crew, scavenging on carrion such as roadkill.
They are not likely to go after your live pets, and will not bother your children.
As for how to identify them: the DNR says watch for their teetering, wobbly flight overhead.
And, if you see a vulture in the wild in Michigan, you'll know it's a turkey vulture.
According to the Blandford's Wildlife Education Center, of the 23 species of vultures in the world, the turkey vulture is the only kind that can be found in Michigan. [Get more turkey vulture identification tips HERE].
While these birds are not dangerous, there is some concern, however, concerning turkey vultures and bird flu.
The DNR says the highly pathogenic avian influenza is a virus known to affect birds throughout North America, with detections in backyard flocks and commercial poultry facilities. HPAI is highly contagious and poultry are especially vulnerable. In addition, this viral strain also affects waterfowl, raptors and scavengers — including turkey vultures, eagles and crows.
In Michigan, HPAI has been confirmed in 69 wild birds as of May 12, with the outbreak continuing to spread throughout North America. The public can follow the the current status of HPAI in Michigan at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.
To learn more about the turkey vulture, the DNR recommends this link.