Will Turkey Vultures Attack Chickens? A Guide to Protecting Your Flock

Although you may frequently witness gracefully soaring turkey vultures in the sky, your backyard chickens may be in danger from them. Although their primary food source is carrion, these sly birds have been known to attack and murder chickens in specific situations.

Do Turkey Vultures Normally Attack Chickens?

No, turkey vultures typically do not attack healthy, adult chickens. Their diet mainly consists of dead animals, and they are not equipped to hunt live prey. However, they may target young, injured, or sick chickens, as well as eggs and chicks.

Factors that Increase the Risk of Turkey Vulture Attacks:

• Vultures in large numbers: A large flock of vultures can overwhelm and attack even healthy chickens.
• Vulnerable chickens: Young chicks, injured or sick chickens, and chickens left unattended are more likely to be targeted.
• Limited food sources: If carrion is scarce, vultures may become more desperate and attack live prey.
• Open spaces: Chickens kept in open areas with no overhead cover are more vulnerable to vulture attacks.

Signs that Turkey Vultures May Be Targeting Your Chickens:

• Vultures circling overhead: If you see vultures circling your chicken coop or run, it could be a sign that they are interested in your chickens.
• Missing feathers or injuries: Check your chickens for any missing feathers or injuries, which could indicate a vulture attack.
• Disappearance of chicks or eggs: If you notice chicks or eggs disappearing, vultures could be the culprit.

Protecting Your Chickens from Turkey Vultures:

• Provide overhead cover: Install netting, shade cloth, or trees over your chicken run to protect your chickens from vultures.
• Keep chickens in a secure coop: Make sure your chicken coop is well-built and secure, with no gaps or holes that vultures can access.
• Don’t leave chickens unattended: Supervise your chickens when they are outside, especially if there are vultures in the area.
• Remove dead animals promptly: If you have any dead animals on your property, remove them quickly to avoid attracting vultures.
• Consider using deterrents: Scarecrows, reflective tape, and loud noises can help deter vultures.

Additional Tips:

• Keep your chickens healthy: Healthy chickens are less likely to be targeted by vultures.
• Provide plenty of food and water: Ensure your chickens have access to a constant supply of fresh food and water.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on the sky and be aware of any vultures in the area.

While turkey vultures are not a major threat to healthy, adult chickens, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect your flock. By following the tips above, you can reduce the likelihood of a vulture attack and keep your chickens safe.