Vulture Attacks Eat Away Income for Livestock Producers

By Judy Mae Bingman

Vultures can be costly to livestock producers, but as federally-protected migratory birds, their control is complicated. Estimates place the annual loss to livestock producers at $300,000 to $500,000.

USDA reports from 2015 indicate that 24,600 calf deaths and another 2,170 cow deaths were due to vultures. The Farm Journal reported in 2019 that vulture attacks are escalating in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.

To help producers understand the regulations and options available to protect livestock, the Illinois Farm Bureau, University of Illinois Extension, and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services Program are offering a free informational webinar from 10 to 11 a.m. Feb. 23. Register at bit.ly/3rkjWyN.

“There are certain things that can be done, including clearing dead trees and tree limbs, ensuring any carcasses are properly buried or removed, and using ‘bird bombs’ or loud noises to keep them from gathering," says Tasha Bunting, Illinois Farm Bureau associate director of commodities and livestock programs "Still, because they’re a protected species, we want to make sure farmers know exactly what can and can’t be done.”

If you will need an accommodation in order to participate, please email Tbunting@ilfb.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.