Turkey vultures can be an unsettling sight around your home or farm. With their large size, bald red heads, and scavenging habits, these birds often become unwelcome guests. If you’re wondering, how do I get rid of turkey vultures?-you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are several humane and legal ways to encourage them to move on and keep your property vulture-free.
Why Turkey Vultures Are a Problem
While turkey vultures play an important role in nature by cleaning up carrion, they can cause issues when they roost or feed near homes. They tend to leave droppings, vomit as a defense, and sometimes damage vents or attract other pests by leaving behind bones. Their presence can be noisy and messy, making it understandable why you’d want to discourage them.
1. Remove Food Sources
Turkey vultures have an incredible sense of smell and are attracted to dead animals and food waste. The first step in getting rid of them is to eliminate anything that might draw them in:
– Quickly remove any dead animals or roadkill from your property.
– Keep trash cans tightly sealed.
– Enclose compost piles to prevent access.
– Avoid leaving pet food or scraps outside.
By cutting off their food supply, you remove their main reason to hang around.
2. Install Roosting Deterrents
Turkey vultures like to perch and roost on roofs, ledges, and other structures. You can make these spots uncomfortable or unappealing by:
– Installing roosting spikes or Birdsphere Shock Tracks that give a mild, harmless shock.
– Using predator decoys like owls or hawks placed on rooftops or poles.
– Hanging reflective objects such as mylar tape, old CDs, or aluminum pie plates that flash in the sunlight.
These measures discourage vultures from settling in.
3. Use Motion-Activated Sprinklers
One of the most effective and humane deterrents is a motion-activated sprinkler. When vultures land, the sudden spray of water startles them, prompting them to leave without harm. Position sprinklers near roosting spots, fences, or rooftops where vultures frequent.
4. Employ Audio and Visual Repellents
Turkey vultures are sensitive to loud noises and certain sounds:
– Use sonic bird cannons or distress calls to simulate danger.
– Fireworks or loud noises can scare them away, but use these cautiously and legally.
– Laser deterrents can also be effective during dawn or dusk when vultures are most active.
These methods can help keep vultures at bay but may require persistence.
5. Use Physical Barriers
If vultures are accessing certain areas repeatedly, physical barriers can help:
– Bird netting over gardens or open spaces.
– Fencing that blocks access to favored roosting or feeding spots.
Make sure barriers are installed properly to avoid trapping or harming birds.
6. Keep Your Property Clean and Use Bird-Friendly Practices
Maintaining a clean yard free of debris and food attractants is key. Additionally, planting native plants, providing bird baths, and installing birdhouses can encourage other bird species that compete with vultures, helping to naturally deter them.
Getting rid of turkey vultures requires a combination of removing food sources, making your property less hospitable, and using humane deterrents like motion-activated sprinklers and reflective objects. Patience and persistence are essential, and always remember to follow local wildlife regulations, as turkey vultures are protected by law.
Would you like tips on specific products or how to safely install deterrents?