New World Vultures, which is a term used to describe all the vulture species from North, Central, and South America, have distinctive bald heads. This is an adaptation that helps reduce the risk of disease. Bacteria can easily get caught in feathers, but it is harder for bacteria to get lodged on bald skin. Additionally, the sun’s rays can help disinfect the exposed skin on their heads and necks, whereas feathers would get in the way of this process.