Protecting livestock from nuisance black vultures
Unlike the less-aggressive turkey vulture, black vultures are known to gang up and prey on newborn livestock.
What do you think?
Black vultures are increasing in population and their aggressive nature can cause problems for livestock producers in Missouri.
Unlike the less-aggressive turkey vulture, black vultures are known to gang up and prey on newborn livestock.
They sometimes attack livestock that are ill or giving birth. While they feed on dead animals, they can kill small to medium sized animals.
Black vultures leave characteristic evidence of their depredation. They can inflict damage to livestock by plucking out eyes, disemboweling, or eating tongues of newborn and sick animals.
Depredation Permits
Black vultures are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This means the birds, their nests and eggs cannot be killed or destroyed unless a permit is obtained from the Missouri Farm Bureau. Permits are free and producers can obtain up to 10 annually. Apply for a permit by emailing Missouri Farm Bureau or calling (573) 893-1417. Don’t forget to report your takes!
Other Mitigation Options
Pen expecting and birthing livestock near human activity for closer observation and a quicker response to problems.
Condense birthing time frame so animals can be monitored closely.
Place black vulture effigies (replicas) around birthing areas to scare away vultures. Hang them by their feet and suspend in the air so they can be seen from a distance.
Harass and scare black vultures away. Examples: create loud noises (horns, starter pistols, shell crackers, propane cannons), spray water and point lasers at the roost.
Use a guard dog to frighten and chase away black vultures.
Create a Customized Management Plan
Producers can request a free site visit or technical assistance from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service - Wildlife Services. Contact USDA-APHIS (573) 449-3033 x10 to discuss options, evaluate the situation, and/or schedule time to establish a customized damage management plan, all free of charge to producers.
For more information on managing black vultures on your farm including mitigation assistance, depredation permits and livestock reimbursement, visit the Missouri Black Vulture Awareness webpage.
