Illinois livestock farmers facing the challenge of highly-aggressive black vultures now have the necessary tools to defend themselves.
The Illinois Farm Bureau has successfully obtained black vulture depredation permits that are valid throughout the state. These permits have been issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and will be in effect from now until March 31, 2025. Black vultures, being migratory birds, are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which means they cannot be harmed or exterminated without the appropriate migratory bird depredation permit.
According to Brian Duncan, the President of the Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB), the black vulture population in Illinois has seen a significant rise in recent years, particularly in the southern part of the state. These birds have a tendency to target young livestock, causing substantial financial losses for farmers, especially in open pastures.
According to Tasha Bunting, director of Commodity Programs and Farm Systems at the Illinois Farm Bureau, black vultures are primarily found in the southern regions of the state. However, they are now starting to expand their range further north.
Bunting expressed concerns about the increasing aggression of the birds, noting that they are more predatory compared to the red-headed turkey vultures.
Black vultures, with a wingspan of around five feet and weighing approximately five pounds, are witnessing an expansion of their populations towards the north. Bunting suggests that this phenomenon could be influenced by the weather.
According to Bunting, the presence of wild turkeys in Illinois has significantly increased in recent years. He notes that these birds were not commonly seen in the state before, but now their population is on the rise. Bunting believes that the mild winters in Illinois are a contributing factor to the turkeys’ decision to stay in the area rather than migrate.
After consulting with USDA Wildlife Services, approved applicants will be allowed to have up to three birds. Once the consultation and approval process is complete, IDNR will issue a state permit.
