Listeners continue to call for information on what to do when black vultures attack their newborn calves. This has grown to be a major problem with area cattle producers. 

Photo ID) The red vulture (on left), also known as turkey vulture, is not killing calves. The black headed vulture (on right) is the one creating issues for cattle producers. 

Robert Rickman has more...

VERBATIM:

Black Vultures: Growing Problem

One listener called WGNS and explained, "Everytime one of our calves are killed that costs us fifteen-hundred to two-thousand dollars."

Another said they heard a newborn calf bawling, and went to see what was the problem. The calf was surrounded by about thirty black vultures. The farmer quickly underscored that these were not the common red headed turkey vultures that we have seen regularly in the area.

Government spokesperson told WGNS that vultures not only kill livestock, they also damage roofs, swimming pool covers, boat canopies, plastic flowers, cars and other items. Since federal law prohibits killing vultures, it is best to use repellents. Call the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for information on how to do this. Robert Rickman, WGNS news.

Who Do You Call

A federal publication warns that vultures live near landfills and pastures. The black vulture and turkey vulture are protected by federal law and cannot be killed without proper permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Here in Tennessee, more information, including how to get "kill permits" are available by calling (615) 781-6622 or a toll-free number is (800) 624-7406. That's the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).