Turkey vultures, also known as buzzards, play an important role in our ecosystem by cleaning up carrion. However, their presence can sometimes be unwelcome, especially when they congregate in large numbers near homes or businesses. If you’re dealing with unwanted turkey vultures, don’t worry! Here’s a friendly guide on how to deter them humanely and effectively.
Keeping these scavengers away involves a combination of understanding their habits and implementing strategies to make your property less appealing. Let’s explore the best approaches.
### Understanding Turkey Vultures
Before diving into removal methods, it’s good to know a bit about these birds. Turkey vultures are attracted to:
* **The Smell of Decay:** This is their primary way of finding food.
* **Roosting Locations:** They prefer high places like trees, towers, and rooftops.
* **Safety in Numbers:** They often gather in groups, especially during migration or roosting.
### Effective Deterrent Strategies
Here are some proven methods to discourage turkey vultures from hanging around:
#### 1. Eliminate Food Sources
* **Clean Up Carrion:** This is the most crucial step. Remove any dead animals from your property promptly. This includes roadkill, rodents, or anything that could attract them.
* **Secure Trash:** Use tightly sealed trash cans to prevent odors from escaping. Vultures have an incredible sense of smell and can detect even faint scents.
* **Pet Food:** Avoid leaving pet food outdoors, as this can also attract unwanted attention.
#### 2. Visual Deterrents
* **Effigies:** Hanging a dead turkey vulture effigy upside down can be surprisingly effective. This signals danger to other vultures and discourages them from roosting. You can purchase these online or from wildlife control suppliers. Note: Be sure to check local regulations regarding the use of effigies.
* **Reflective Devices:** Shiny, moving objects like scare tape, CDs, or Mylar balloons can startle vultures and make them feel uneasy. Hang these in areas where they tend to congregate.
* **Predator Decoys:** Owls and hawk decoys can deter vultures, as they are natural predators. Place them in visible locations, and move them occasionally to maintain their effectiveness.
#### 3. Physical Barriers
* **Netting:** Install netting over areas where vultures roost, such as rooftops or ledges. This prevents them from landing and makes the area less attractive.
* **Spike Strips:** Bird spikes can be installed on ledges and other surfaces to prevent vultures from perching. These are humane and effective in keeping birds away.
* **Wire Grids:** Stringing wire grids over open areas can also deter vultures. The wires make it difficult for them to land comfortably.
#### 4. Harassment Techniques
* **Water Sprinklers:** Motion-activated sprinklers can startle vultures and discourage them from returning. Place them in areas where they frequently roost.
* **Noisemakers:** Loud noises, such as banging pots and pans or using air horns, can scare vultures away. This is most effective when done consistently.
* **Laser Pointers:** Using a laser pointer to shine a beam of light near vultures can disrupt their roosting and encourage them to move on. Be sure to avoid shining the laser directly into their eyes.
#### 5. Professional Assistance
* **Wildlife Control Services:** If you’re struggling to manage turkey vultures on your own, consider hiring a professional wildlife control service. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove vultures from your property.
* **USDA Wildlife Services:** In some cases, the USDA Wildlife Services may be able to provide assistance with vulture management. Contact your local office for more information.
### Important Considerations
* **Legal Protection:** Turkey vultures are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to harm, kill, or harass them without a permit. Always use humane and non-lethal methods to deter them.
* **Persistence:** It may take time and effort to get rid of turkey vultures. Be persistent with your deterrent strategies, and adjust them as needed.
* **Community Involvement:** If vultures are a problem in your neighborhood, work with your neighbors to implement deterrent strategies collectively. This can be more effective than individual efforts.
### FAQ Section
**Q: Why are turkey vultures attracted to my property?**
A: They are likely attracted by the smell of decaying matter, suitable roosting locations, or a combination of both.
**Q: Is it safe to handle a dead turkey vulture?**
A: No. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when handling dead animals. Dispose of the carcass properly to prevent the spread of disease.
**Q: Will these methods hurt the vultures?**
A: The methods described here are designed to deter vultures humanely without causing them harm.
**Q: How long does it take to get rid of turkey vultures?**
A: The time it takes to get rid of turkey vultures can vary depending on the severity of the problem and the effectiveness of your deterrent strategies. It may take several weeks or even months to achieve lasting results.
**Q: Are there any plants that repel vultures?**
A: There are no known plants that specifically repel vultures. The best way to deter them is to eliminate food sources and make your property less attractive.
By understanding turkey vulture behavior and implementing the right strategies, you can effectively manage their presence on your property while respecting their role in the environment. Remember to be persistent, adapt your approach as needed, and seek professional assistance if you’re struggling to solve the problem on your own.