Black vultures are a common sight in Missouri, and while they play a vital role in the ecosystem as scavengers, their aggressive nature can pose a threat to livestock and cause property damage. This guide will delve into the legalities surrounding black vulture control in Missouri, providing you with the information you need to manage these birds effectively.
Understanding Black Vultures and Their Impact
Black vultures are a protected species under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This means that harming or killing them without a permit is illegal. However, their increasing population and aggressive behavior have led to concerns among Missouri livestock producers and residents.
Black vultures are known to:
- Prey on newborn and sick livestock: They can inflict severe damage by plucking out eyes, disemboweling, or eating tongues.
- Cause property damage: They may damage rubber seals, windshield wipers, canvas awnings, and vinyl materials.
- Create a nuisance with their droppings: This can be a problem for homeowners and businesses.
Legal Methods for Controlling Black Vultures
While shooting black vultures is not permitted without a permit, there are several legal methods you can employ to deter and control them:
Non-lethal Harassment Techniques:
- Use loud noises: This could include horns, sirens, or pyrotechnics.
- Spray them with water: This can be effective in dispersing small groups of vultures.
- Use effigies: Realistic replicas of dead vultures can scare away live birds.
- Harass them with lasers or pyrotechnics: This should be done with caution and in compliance with local ordinances.
Lethal Control Options:
- Obtain a Migratory Bird Depredation Permit: This permit allows you to take a limited number of black vultures under specific circumstances.
- Contact USDA APHIS Wildlife Services: They can provide assistance with developing a customized damage management plan.
Additional Resources for Black Vulture Control:
- Missouri Farm Bureau Black Vulture Depredation Sub-Permit Program: This program allows producers to obtain a free permit to take up to five black vultures annually.
- Livestock Indemnity Program: This program provides reimbursement for livestock losses caused by black vultures.
- Missouri Department of Agriculture Black Vulture Necropsy Reimbursement Process: This program provides financial assistance for livestock producers who have a necropsy performed on livestock suspected of being killed by black vultures.
Important Considerations:
- Always prioritize non-lethal methods before resorting to lethal control.
- Ensure you comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
- Seek professional assistance from USDA APHIS Wildlife Services or other qualified wildlife management experts.
By understanding the legalities surrounding black vulture control and implementing effective management strategies, you can minimize the impact of these birds on your livestock, property, and well-being.
FAQs:
Can I shoot black vultures in Missouri?
No, shooting black vultures is illegal without a permit.
How do I get a permit to shoot black vultures?
You can apply for a Migratory Bird Depredation Permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
What are some non-lethal methods for controlling black vultures?
Non-lethal methods include using loud noises, spraying them with water, using effigies, and harassing them with lasers or pyrotechnics.
What are some lethal control options for black vultures?
Lethal control options include obtaining a Migratory Bird Depredation Permit and contacting USDA APHIS Wildlife Services.
Where can I find more information about black vulture control?
You can find more information on the websites of the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Missouri Farm Bureau, and USDA APHIS Wildlife Services.
Black vulture control in Missouri requires a multi-faceted approach that balances the need to protect these birds with the need to mitigate their negative impacts. By understanding the legalities, employing effective management strategies, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can effectively address black vulture issues while remaining compliant with the law.
Controlling Nuisance Black Vultures in Missouri New February 2023
Robert A. Pierce II MU Extension State Wildlife and Fisheries Specialist
Travis Guerrant State Director, USDA APHIS Wildlife Services-Missouri/Iowa
Vultures play a critical role in the environment as scavengers of carrion. By eating carrion, they contribute significantly to the environment by lowering the risk of disease outbreaks. Like all other wildlife, turkey and black vultures will utilize the resources at their disposal; sadly, this can lead to problems when it comes to human habitations and, in certain situations, livestock operations.
In Missouri, livestock producers may face challenges due to the aggressive behavior of black vultures, in particular, as their population continues to rise. In contrast to their less assertive relative, the turkey vulture, black vultures have a reputation for banding together to hunt young goats, piglets, lambs, and calves. They sometimes attack cows that are ill or giving birth. Black vultures have the ability to harm rubber seals and windshield wipers on stationary cars, canvas awnings and boat seats, and rubber or vinyl roofing materials.
Legally, black vultures are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. Their migratory range extends for thousands of miles from North America to the lower portions of South America, crossing national boundaries. It is illegal to harm or take (kill) black vultures without a permit.
Disposing of dead livestock
Properly disposing of dead livestock after a depredation event or any other type of livestock mortality can significantly reduce the likelihood of future vulture attacks and other wildlife-related problems. Reducing the duration of time vultures and other predators can locate the carcass will lessen the likelihood of them returning to the area. The MU Extension publication WQ216, Routine Animal Mortality Management Options in Missouri, contains the laws and regulations that are specific to Missouri regarding the disposal and composting of dead animals.
Livestock Indemnity Program
When proof of black vulture depredation is obtainable, producers can apply for reimbursement through the Livestock Indemnity Program under the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA).
- Strong proof of vulture predation is required, such as verification through a date-stamped image or video. Documentation proving livestock ownership through acquisition or other methods is also necessary. The local FSA committee makes the decision about whether there is sufficient evidence to justify reimbursement, which can amount to as much as 27.5 percent of the average fair market value of livestock that is lost. For additional information, contact Missouri FSA. Attempt to frighten away the birds and take pictures if the depredation is happening right now.
- As soon as you discover the alleged vulture feasting on livestock, you should snap pictures of it.
- Ensure that all of the animal is included in the photos, with special attention to the face and back, as shown in Figure 6. It could be challenging to tell whether the black vultures are feeding on dead animals or killed the cattle they are eating, so accurate documentation is crucial. To prevent other vultures or wildlife from continuing to eat the carcass, remove the animal from the area.
- To prevent drawing more animals to the area, it is crucial that photos are taken and the carcass is removed as soon as possible.