Black Vulture Depredation Permits

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BLACK VULTURE DEPREDATION PERMITS NOW AVAILABLE FOR IMPACTED LIVESTOCK FARMERS

Illinois Farm Bureau® (IFB) recently secured statewide black vulture depredation permits to protect Illinois livestock producers.

The issue:

  • Black vultures are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, but they are known to prey on livestock and birthing mothers and can cause significant injuries and even death.

  • Black vultures live in southern regions but are expanding their range further north, creating depredation problems for Illinois farmers.

  • To protect Illinois farmers, Illinois Farm Bureau, IDNR, USFWS and USDA Wildlife Services created a black vulture depredation permit process in 2021.

Secure your permit today:

  • Step 1: Contact Illinois Farm Bureau® Director of Commodity Programs and Food Systems, Tasha Bunting, at tbunting@ilfb.org. IFB will issue sub-permits as a benefit to livestock farmers experiencing problems with black vultures.

  • Step 2: Consult with USDA Wildlife Services. IFB will assist members with the process. Following the consultation and approval, a state permit will also be provided by Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

The details:

  • The permits are effective through December 31, 2026.

  • Approved applicants will be allowed a maximum of three birds, determined during the consultation process with USDA Wildlife Services.

  • Applicants must agree to follow all rules and regulations required by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in the IFB statewide permit and the requirements of the IDNR permit.

  • Black vultures, which have a dark gray head and are aggressive, should not be confused with their larger, less aggressive and red-headed relative, the turkey vulture.

Economic Impact of Black Vultures & Management Options Report (IFB)