WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill. (WSIL) � A silent threat is circling overhead and it’s no longer just scavenging.
Across Southern Illinois, farmers are sounding the alarm as black vultures grow in number and in aggression. “Black vultures are much more aggressive" says Tasha Bunting, Director of Commodity Programs & Farm Systems at the Illinois Farm Bureau.
Unlike their red-headed cousins, the turkey vultures, which only feed on carcasses, black vultures are bold, territorial, and known to attack living animals, especially newborn livestock or weakened mothers during birth.
Farmer's have seen attacks on baby calves, lambs, and even piglets.
Once uncommon in Illinois, black vultures are now migrating farther north, with officials noting a marked increase in sightings and damage reports over the past few years.
“It’s a loss of life,� said Bunting. Her office has had farmers call, needing help protecting their herds. And it’s not just livestock, the bird's are also known to tear through rooftops, damaging vehicles and fencing.
Despite their threat to rural livelihoods, black vultures remain protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes harming them without a permit a serious offense.
“There are fines,� says Bunting. And depending on the situation, charges can include jail time.
To help, Illinois offers free depredation permits through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, allowing limited lethal action during regulated seasons.
Bunting explains, “Farmers or a designated representative can take up to three vultures per permit to protect their animals.�
The current permit season began in March 2025 and is valid through the end of the year, covering both spring and fall calving seasons, times when livestock is most vulnerable.
Once a permit is issued, any carcasses must be disposed of responsibly. Burial is allowed, and some farmers opt for a more strategic method: effigies.
“Effigies have been very successful,� Bunting said.
Hanging an actual effigy or synthetic vulture near roosting sites can drive the flock away. "It sounds strange, but it works, she said�.
As more black vultures take flight over the region, state and federal officials say they’re working to balance wildlife conservation with the needs of rural communities.
Managing these birds safely is the goal, And so far, the plan seems to be working.
For information on obtaining a depredation permit, visit the Illinois Farm Bureau .
