Illinois Farmers Receive Support to Combat Black Vulture Threat

By Andi Anderson

Illinois farmers facing the growing threat of black vulture depredation received a significant boost in support, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Illinois Farm Bureau and various governmental agencies.

Black vultures, known for preying on young livestock and birthing mothers, have posed a substantial challenge to farmers, particularly in the southern regions of the state. To address this issue, the Illinois Farm Bureau successfully secured statewide black vulture depredation permits through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, effective until March 31.

Livestock farmers, including those with cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and swine, can now access these permits to protect their animals from black vulture attacks. As migratory birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, black vultures require specific permits for control measures.

Illinois Farm Bureau President Brian Duncan emphasized the importance of these permits in mitigating financial losses for farmers and streamlining the application process. By collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Wildlife Services and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the farm bureau aims to expedite the issuance of both federal and state permits for affected livestock producers.

Natalie Phelps Finnie, Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, expressed the agency's commitment to developing a straightforward process for livestock producers to obtain permits while ensuring the conservation of protected species.

Approved applicants will be granted permits to address black vulture depredation, with a maximum allowance of three birds per farmer, determined in consultation with USDA Wildlife Services.

Livestock producers in Illinois experiencing issues with black vultures can request sub-permit applications through the Illinois Farm Bureau's associate director of commodity and livestock, Tasha Bunting, via email at tbunting@ilfb.org.

With the collaborative efforts of agricultural organizations and governmental agencies, Illinois farmers are better equipped to protect their livestock and mitigate the impacts of black vulture depredation on their operations.

Photo Credit: Illinois Farm Bureau